Police Commissioner Will Retire After Nearly 40 Years With Department

NEW ROCHELLE, NY — A fixture in New Rochelle law enforcement will retire from the department that has been his home for nearly 40 years.

City Manager Wilfredo Melendez said New Rochelle Police Commissioner Robert Gazzola has given notice that he will step down at the end of this month.

Gazzola has served as New Rochelle Police Commissioner since July 1, 2021.

"It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the people of New Rochelle and to work alongside the dedicated officers of this department," Gazzola said in a statement. "I am proud of all we've accomplished together and deeply grateful for the trust and partnership of our residents. I recently accepted a new professional opportunity, and while it was not an easy decision to step away, I leave knowing the department is built on a strong foundation, with a committed team ready to carry its mission forward.”

The City Manager said that a replacement for Gazzola has not yet decided.

"Commissioner Gazzola has led the department with integrity, professionalism, and a deep commitment to community policing. Under his leadership, the department has advanced key public safety initiatives and strengthened relationships with residents," City Manager Melendez said. "We are working on a transition that will ensure continuity for the department, and will announce further details in the coming weeks."

Gazzola joined the department in 1986. He was ported to the rank of sergeant in 1993, Lieutenant in 1996, and captain in 2002. He served as Captain of the Police Services Division from 2002 - 2015, and then Captain of the Criminal Investigations Division before being promoted to Deputy Police Commissioner in 2018. Gazzola became Police Commissioner in July 2021.