Effective Friday, November 3, Rodney Harrison will be stepping down as Suffolk County Police Commissioner after confirming his resignation to the news media Thursday evening.
The surprise announcement comes in light of the upcoming election on Tuesday, November 7, where a new Suffolk County Executive will be decided by voters. Incumbent Steve Bellone, who hired Harrison, has reached his term limit and cannot continue in the position; it is generally believed that Harrison would not be a part of the new administration.
Currently, the race for a new Suffolk County Executive is down to Republican Ed Romaine and Democrat David Calone.
Harrison, 54, has served as Police Commissioner since December 31, 2021, and is the first Black man to hold that position in the history of the Suffolk County Police Department, having previously served in the NYPD as Chief of Department.
He is also credited for being a key figure in solving the Gilgo Beach murders case that resulted in the arrest of suspected killer and Massapequa Park resident, Rex Heuermann; Bellone issued a statement saying that cracking the case would be what Harrison will be remembered for.
"Because of his efforts, our communities are safer, the department is more equitable, accountable and transparent, and meaningful relationships have been fostered with our diverse communities," Bellone said.