Suffolk’s Commissioner To Be Sworn In, New Chief Gets Shield

BRENTWOOD, NY — Suffolk Police Commissioner Rodney Harrison is expected to take his official oath at a formal swearing-in ceremony, while Chief of Department Robert Waring will be presented with his new shield Tuesday at the police academy in Brentwood.

Harrison, a 30-year veteran of the New York Police Department who recently served as the Chief of Department, took over the role from retiring acting police commissioner Stuart Cameron on Dec. 27.

Harrison will be in charge of enacting Bellone's new police reform plan following years of scandals, including the conviction of former Chief of Department James Burke who went to federal prison after beating a prisoner in custody. In February 2021, officers were accused of roughing up a suspect who stole a Jeep and led them on a chase.

Harrison, who is a Baldwin resident, previously told Newsday he would be "a great fit" to lead the department.

"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."

Waring, a 36-year vet of the force who served as the chief of operations and as the commander of the department’s 3rd Precinct, is taking over the department’s top uniformed members and said he is looking forward to his new role, adding, "It’s a great opportunity,” Newsday reported.

He told the outlet that he will focus on dropping the crime rate, improving traffic safety, and engaging with the community.

Waring’s replacement will be Deputy Chief of Patrol Gerard Hardy, and Matthew Lewis will stay on as chief of detectives and Christopher Hatton as chief of operation, the outlet reported.