Critics are denouncing Democratic leadership in Mount Vernon, New York, following the arrest of Deputy Police Commissioner Jennifer Lackard. Lackard was charged with attempted murder for allegedly driving a getaway car for her son during a drive-by shooting in the Bronx. The incident has led to calls for a formal investigation into the city's leadership and policing practices.
Damon K. Jones, a representative for Blacks in Law Enforcement of America, stated that the situation has "embarrassed the department and overshadowed the work of the many dedicated officers who continue to serve the community professionally." He added, "Mount Vernon deserves leadership that accepts responsibility—not leadership that rewrites history."
Lackard, 49, was hired for her position in 2020 by Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard, despite lacking prior police experience. Sources suggest Patterson-Howard, a fellow sorority sister of Lackard, may have been influenced by local Democratic powerbroker Rev. Franklyn Richardson. Critics allege favoritism played a role in Lackard's appointment.
Mayor Patterson-Howard reportedly blamed the hiring on deceased former Commissioner Glenn Scott and broader police reforms enacted after George Floyd's killing. However, Jones countered that Scott would not have recommended hiring someone with no police background for such a role. Lackard has since been fired from her position.
The arrest is the latest controversy to affect Mount Vernon, a city of 72,000 residents and a Democratic stronghold. The city has a history of political scandals, including two former mayors who were arrested and removed from office on charges of federal tax evasion and state grand larceny. One of those former mayors, Richard Thomas, called for President Trump to launch a probe into the city's governance, likening the situation to ignoring a national security threat.
Lackard's husband, James Lackard, who has a prior conviction for drug trafficking, was also arrested days after his wife in connection with the incident. According to an indictment, Jennifer Lackard allegedly texted her son, Chase Lackard, 20, instructions during the shooting, including advice on timing and positioning.
Locals have expressed frustration with the city's leadership, with some citing a general atmosphere of favoritism within city government. The incident has intensified scrutiny on Mount Vernon's administration and its commitment to transparent and effective governance.