New Southampton Police Chief Sworn In

SOUTHAMPTON, NY — New Southampton Town Police Chief Steven E. Skrynecki was officially sworn inMonday at Southampton Town Hall, in the town clerk's office.

Skrynecki was selected by the Southampton town board to replace former Chief Robert Pearce, who retired last September. Chief Skrynecki is the fifth police chief since the Southampton Town Police Department was founded in 1951.

Before coming to Southampton, Chief Skrynecki was Chief of the Department in Nassau County since 2010.

He began his career as a patrol officer in Nassau County in 1974 and worked his way through the ranks to commanding officer of the robbery squad, vice squad, narcotics squad, internal affairs, chief of detectives and ultimately, to chief of the department, a release said.

In addition, he served as a part time consultant for the Southampton Town Police Department since January until he was free to assume his new role.

“We welcome Chief Skrynecki to the Town of Southampton and look forward to working with him," said Supervisor Jay Schneiderman. “He brings with him great experience and keen insight into law enforcement that I believe will be a tremendous asset to the town.”

Southampton Town Police Chief Capt. Lawrence Schurek served as acting police chief until Skrynecki could be sworn in.

“Capt. Schurek did a terrific job in his leadership role and I thank him for providing a smooth transition for the new chief,” Schneiderman said.