Rodney Harrison Begins Job As Suffolk Police Commissioner

YAPHANK, NY — Former New York Police Department chief Rodney Harrison began his new job in Suffolk on Monday, becoming the first black person to be appointed to the post of police commissioner in the county's history.

Risco Mention-Lewis, who served as acting police commissioner after the retirement of Stuart Cameron, will continue to serve the department as deputy police commissioner.

The appointment of Harrison, who was nominated by County Executive Steve Bellone, was unanimously approved by the Suffolk Legislature last week. He is a 30-year veteran of the NYPD who recently served as the Chief of Department — the highest-ranking uniformed member of the force.

"Congratulations Commissioner Harrison and welcome to the SCPD!" the department wrote on its Facebook page.

Harrison, who is a Baldwin resident, told Newsday he would be "a great fit" for the position.

"I want to thank the county executive for giving me this opportunity," he told the outlet. "I think I can make sure the ship is steered in the right direction. There are issues. There are some things that need to be closely looked at. But at the end of the day, I'm excited. I'm proud to be here today. I'm proud to be the next police commissioner of Suffolk County."

At the helm of the department, Harrison will be tasked with putting into place Bellone's new police reform plan.