Cumberland County Honoree
Cumberland County Sheriff
Michael Donato is a lifelong resident of Cumberland County with more than 25 years of
distinguished service in law enforcement and public safety.
He began his career in 1994 with the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office, working in the County
Jail, Courthouse, and Narcotics Task Force. He later served with the Bridgeton Police
Department from 1998 to 2005 in Uniform Patrol, the Criminal Investigation Division, and the
County Narcotics Task Force. In 2005, he joined the Cumberland County Prosecutor’s Office,
where he served for 15 years.
During his time with the Prosecutor’s Office, Michael worked extensively with the Narcotics Task
Force, authored search warrants leading to the seizure of illegal narcotics, weapons, and
currency, and served in both the Trial Unit and Major Crimes Unit. He rose through the ranks to
Detective Lieutenant, supervising the Major Crimes Unit and later the Legal Bureau before
retiring in 2020. Throughout his career, he collaborated with municipal, state, and federal
agencies to enhance public safety across the region.
In addition to his law enforcement career, Michael has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to
volunteer service. He has been a member of the Cedarville Volunteer Fire Department since
1991 and currently serves as Deputy Chief. He also held leadership roles in Lawrence Township
Emergency Medical Services and served as President of the Cumberland County Fire Chiefs and
EMS Captains Association, where he currently serves as 2nd Vice President.
Michael is also actively involved in community initiatives, including serving on the Bridgeton
Invitational Baseball Committee.
Throughout his career, he has received numerous awards and recognitions, including honors
from the United States Drug Enforcement Administration and being named the Albert J. Mallen
2004 Narcotics Officer of the Year.
Michael and his wife, Denise, have raised four children in Cumberland County and remain
deeply committed to their community.
