The Totowa, New Jersey community is mourning the loss of Todd Mitchell, a respected law enforcement veteran, school resource officer, and security professional who passed away on June 6, 2026.
Mitchell dedicated much of his life to public service, spending decades protecting residents, students, government facilities, and fellow citizens throughout Passaic County and beyond. His death has left a profound void among family members, friends, colleagues, students, and the many communities he served throughout his distinguished career.
Todd Mitchell Dies on June 6, 2026
Todd Mitchell of Totowa, New Jersey, died on June 6, 2026.
Known for his commitment to public safety and his unwavering dedication to helping others, Mitchell built a career that spanned more than three decades in law enforcement, emergency response, school safety, and federal security operations.
Those who worked alongside him describe him as a professional who took pride in protecting others and ensuring the safety of every environment in which he served.
A Career Dedicated to Service
Mitchell’s public service career began with the Passaic County Sheriff’s Department, where he served for more than 25 years.
During his tenure, he worked in multiple divisions and held various responsibilities that required leadership, discipline, and dedication.
He spent five years assigned to the Passaic County Superior Courts, providing security for judges, employees, visitors, and court facilities.
He also dedicated ten years to the Passaic County Jail, overseeing inmate custody, transportation, hospital watches, intake procedures, and institutional security operations.
Later in his career, Mitchell served as a Corporal in the Patrol Division, supervising shifts, patrolling county properties, assisting local municipalities, and participating in law enforcement operations throughout Passaic County.
His colleagues respected him for his professionalism and his ability to handle difficult situations with calmness and authority.
Emergency Medical Service and Community Support
In addition to his law enforcement duties, Mitchell served for 18 years as a New Jersey State Certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT).
During that time, he provided mutual aid assistance to municipalities across Passaic County, helping individuals during emergencies and medical crises.
His willingness to serve extended far beyond his assigned duties, earning appreciation from both fellow first responders and community members.
Champion of School Safety
After retiring from the Sheriff’s Department, Mitchell continued his service through school safety and student protection roles.
He worked as a School Resource Officer and Board Security professional with the Paterson Board of Education for more than nine years.
During his tenure, he was assigned to several schools, including Kennedy High School, Roberto Clemente Middle School, and School 12.
His responsibilities included maintaining campus security, conducting safety drills, monitoring surveillance systems, overseeing visitor access, managing disciplinary incidents, and ensuring the safety of students and staff.
Mitchell became a familiar and trusted presence in school hallways, helping create safe learning environments while building positive relationships with students.
Service to Totowa Board of Education
Most recently, Mitchell served as a School Resource Officer and School Safety Specialist for the Totowa Board of Education.
As a New Jersey State Certified School Resource Officer and School Safety Specialist, he continued his mission of protecting children and educators.
His role involved overseeing school security operations, conducting safety assessments, and ensuring compliance with state-mandated emergency preparedness procedures.
Those who worked with him often praised his commitment to student welfare and school safety.
Federal Security Officer for Homeland Security Facilities
Alongside his school safety responsibilities, Mitchell also worked as a Federal Security Officer through Paragon/Parasys, providing security services for Department of Homeland Security facilities.
In that position, he was responsible for safeguarding federal employees, visitors, government property, and critical infrastructure.
His duties included conducting drills, monitoring facility security, and maintaining a safe environment for all who entered federal facilities.
His experience and professionalism made him a valued member of the federal security community.
Accomplishments Beyond Law Enforcement
Mitchell’s interests and achievements extended beyond public safety.
He was a second-degree black belt in Okinawan Shorin Ryu Shidokan Karate, reflecting his commitment to discipline, self-improvement, and leadership.
He also held numerous professional certifications, including:
- New Jersey School Resource Officer Certification
- New Jersey School Safety Specialist Certification
- CPR Certification
- LE.A.D. (Law Enforcement Against Drugs and Violence) Instructor Certification
- New Jersey RPO Carry Permit
- HR 218 Qualification
These accomplishments reflected a lifelong commitment to learning, preparedness, and service.
Remembering Todd Mitchell
Throughout his career, Todd Mitchell earned the respect of fellow officers, educators, students, security professionals, and community members.
His life was defined by service, leadership, and a desire to make others safer.
Whether responding to emergencies, protecting schools, supervising law enforcement operations, or safeguarding federal facilities, he consistently placed the well-being of others ahead of his own.
Those who knew him remember a man who served with honor and took pride in every responsibility entrusted to him.
His legacy will continue through the countless lives he impacted during more than three decades of public service.
Family and Friends Mourn His Passing
As family members, friends, and colleagues grieve this tremendous loss, many are reflecting on Mitchell’s contributions to the communities he served.
His dedication to protecting others, mentoring students, and supporting fellow first responders leaves a lasting legacy that will not be forgotten.
Todd Mitchell will be remembered as a devoted public servant, respected law enforcement officer, trusted school resource officer, and valued member of the Totowa community.
His impact will continue to be felt for years to come.