NYPD Chief of Department Rodney Harrison Retiring Dec. 30, 2021

“Cheif Rodney Harrison, a 30-year-veteran of the New York City Police Department who is currently the Department’s highest-ranking uniformed officer, will be retiring on December 30, 2021,” police Commissioner Dermot Shea announced today

Chief Harrison will be ending his three-decade career in the NYPD that began in 1991. Urged by his father he found his vocation in law enforcement, viewing it as an opportunity to create positive change for residents across New York City. 

Chief Harrison, who has dedicated his life to public safety, received the Departmental Combat Cross for his heroism in the incident in which he was shot by a violent narcotics dealer while working undercover. 

In January 2018, Harrison became the chief of Patrol, managing over 20,000 members of the service, and in 2019 incoming Police Commissioner Shea appointed him to become the Chief of Detectives, making him the first African American to hold that title. 

As the Chief of Detectives, Chief Harrison directed the investigations of crimes during one of the most violent years New York City has experienced in decades.

“He has performed in every rank with knowledge, skill, integrity, and a great passion for our mission,” said Shea. “We will miss him, but we wish him well.”

Keeping a commitment to public safety in the family, two of Harrison’s adult daughters, Amber and Tyra, were recently sworn in as uniformed members of the NYPD.

“I’m extremely proud to have worked tirelessly, over my entire career, protecting people and giving back to the city’s communities,” Said Chief Harrison. “It’s been an honor.”