McKeesport police chief hired as new South Allegheny School District chief of police

The South Allegheny School District has hired City of McKeesport Police Chief Adam Alfer as their new district chief of police.

Alfer was hired by 8-0 vote at Thursday’s special board meeting, according to a Facebook post.

He will be responsible for all safety and security measures for the school district.

Alfer has been with the City of McKeesport Police Department for 27 years, serving as chief since 2019.

In February, the police department lost an officer when a man opened fire during a domestic disturbance call.

Officer Sean Sluganski was killed in the line of duty and his partner, Officer Charles Thomas, was injured responding to the call.

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“We all saw the type of man he is over the last six months, and I know his department is hurting over there. I know that community is hurting. Their loss is our gain, but he’s McKeesport through and through. They’re our neighbor,” said Superintendent David McDonald of South Allegheny Schools.

Alfer declined our request for an interview, but McKeesport Mayor Michael Cherepko issued the following statement:

“Chief Alfer has had a long and fulfilling career with the McKeesport Police Department, and while he will be greatly missed, I am truly happy for him. He has been an incredible asset to our police department for more than 25 years. I’ve known him my entire life, and now that I’ve had the distinct pleasure of working closely with him as chief, and I can assure you South Allegheny School District is getting a first-class individual. Not only will Chief Alfer put his time and energy into keeping the district safe; he also will be committed to building trust and a good rapport with students as he’s done in his many years as a juvenile detective, wrestling coach, and baseball coach.”

McDonald said Alfer will transition into his new role at the start of the school year as he wraps up his duties in McKeesport but will be full time later in the fall.

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