Suffolk County Police Commissioner Edward Webber Retiring

Suffolk County Police Commissioner Edward Webber announced his plans to retire on Monday.

Webber, who joined the Suffolk County Police Department in 1972 and has spent the last three years as commissioner, will step down in January.

Here are statements released Monday by Webber and Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone:

Webber

“As County Executive Bellone transitions to his second term, he needs department heads who are prepared to make a commitment to serve the next four years. After 43 years of service in the Suffolk County Police Department and consulting with Kathy, my wife of 46 years, I am announcing my retirement. I look forward to spending a lot more time with my three children and six grandchildren.

When I first joined the Suffolk County Police Department in 1972, I never dreamed that one day I would end up leading this amazing organization. I have devoted my life to the Suffolk County Police Department and I know that the department is well positioned to succeed.

I am proud of having overseen a dramatic reduction in crime. Suffolk County continues to be one of the safest communities in the nation. Overall crime is down by more than 20 percent in the past four years, including historic lows in areas like homicide, rape and burglary.

I would like to thank all four County Executives who have shown faith in me through four appointments, culminating in County Executive Bellone giving me this great opportunity to serve as Commissioner.

But, first and foremost, I would like thank all the men and women of the Suffolk County Police Department, both sworn and civilian. It is their hard work, their professionalism and their dedication that has been instrumental in my success and the success of the department going forward.

At County Executive Bellone’s request, I have agreed to stay on for the next two months, through January 25, 2016, in order to facilitate a transition and build on the department’s successes.”

Bellone

“Commissioner Edward Webber has served Suffolk County residents with honor and distinction for more than 43 years. Suffolk County is a better place and our residents are safer today because of Edward Webber’s distinguished service. However, after more than four decades of service, I respect that Ed wants to devote himself fully to his wife Kathy, his three children and his six grandchildren.

Under Commissioner Webber’s tenure, crime is down by more than 20 percent, including a double-digit decrease in violent crime. That is because Commissioner Webber spearheaded implementing a number of initiatives to make our force more effective. Commissioner Webber oversaw a successful merger between the Suffolk County Police Department and the Park Police which has resulted in operational efficiencies which are saving taxpayers millions of dollars and improving service.

The Suffolk County Police Department has improved its relationships with minority communities by successfully implementing community-based policing initiatives which helps the force serve our communities better.

I am appreciative that Commissioner Webber has agreed to stay in his position for the next two months to provide a steady hand and allow for an effective transition.”