James W. McGowan

James W. McGowan is an accomplished executive leader with more than 26 years of experience spanning law enforcement, investigations, operations, and security management. He currently serves as Vice President of Security for Caesars Entertainment at Tropicana Atlantic City, where he directs departmental strategy, oversees a team of 160 officers, supervisors, and managers, and collaborates with law enforcement and regulatory agencies to ensure safety, compliance, and emergency preparedness for one of the region’s most dynamic hospitality and entertainment properties.

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Prior to joining Caesars Entertainment, James had a distinguished 26-year career with the New Jersey State Police, rising to the rank of Major and serving in multiple executive leadership roles. In these capacities, he commanded statewide operations with more than 1,800 troopers under his leadership, set strategic direction for field and investigative divisions, and oversaw hundreds of high-profile investigations involving homicide, organized crime, financial fraud, cybercrime, and complex emergent threats. He also played a pivotal role in developing statewide policies on gun violence reduction, investigative procedures, and training programs, while working closely with federal, state, and local agencies including the FBI, DEA, HSI, and ATF.

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Recognized for his professionalism and leadership, James has received multiple commendations for exceptional service, including Colonel’s Letters of Commendation, Certificates of Unit Commendation, and the National Troopers Coalition Unit Meritorious Award. His specialized expertise includes crisis management, internal and confidential investigations, and security operations for large-scale events.

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James holds a Master of Arts in Human Resource Training and Development from Seton Hall University and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Bloomsburg University. A graduate of the FBI National Academy, he maintains an active Top Secret clearance and is licensed as a Private Investigator.

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Beyond his professional career, James contributes as an Executive Board Member of the Atlantic County 200 Club and the Atlantic City Police Foundation, and as Co-Founder and President of the New Jersey Homicide Investigators Association. He also serves his community as President of the Linwood Baseball Association.

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