Updated on 6/6/2025 with official statement — see below.
NEW ROCHELLE, NY (June 3, 2025) — New Rochelle Police Commissioner Robert Gazzola is set to retire on June 30, 2025, after nearly four decades with the department, according to sources at City Hall.
Unconfirmed reports suggest he may take a senior security position at a large medical organization, possibly Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla.
Gazzola, a New Rochelle native, joined the New Rochelle Police Department in 1986 and rose through the ranks to become commissioner in July 2021. He served as sergeant in 1993, lieutenant in 1996, captain in 2002, and deputy commissioner in 2018. With a bachelor’s degree from Iona College and a master’s in public administration from Marist College, Gazzola led the department through significant reforms, including implementing a body camera program in 2021 and creating the Professional Development and Community Engagement Division to enhance community trust.
Under his leadership, the department earned a 2025 Citation of Exceptional Merit for a swift homicide investigation, solving a case within eight hours. Gazzola also spearheaded initiatives like the Westchester County Domestic Violence High Risk Training Program and collaborated on “Operation Casper” in 2022 to combat gun violence.
In 2001, he served at Ground Zero during 9/11 recovery efforts, and earned multiple commendations throughout his career.
However, Gazzola’s tenure was not without challenges. The 2020 fatal shooting of Kamal Flowers by Officer Alec McKenna strained community-police relations. His 2021 proposal for a new division also sparked debate over budget increases, with critics questioning the cost of additional senior command positions. The controversial 2023 fatal shooting of Jarrel Garris by New Rochelle Police Detective Steven Conn intensified community tensions.
The New York Attorney General’s 14-month investigation cleared Conn, finding his use of force justified, but recommended enhanced training on de-escalation and force policies, which Gazzola committed to reviewing.
City officials have not released an official statement on Gazzola’s retirement or potential new role. Attempts to confirm these details with the New Rochelle Police Department were unsuccessful. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
UPDATED WITH OFFICIAL STATEMENT 6/6/2025
NRPD Commissioner Robert Gazzola Announces Retirement After
Nearly Four Decades of Service
After four years of service as the City’s Police Commissioner, Robert Gazzola is set to step down from the Department on June 30th
NEW ROCHELLE (June 6, 2025) – City Manager Wilfredo Melendez announced today the notice of retirement from New Rochelle Police Commissioner Robert Gazzola, who will step down at the end of the month after a distinguished career with the Department spanning nearly 40 years.
Commissioner Gazzola has served as Police Commissioner since July 1, 2021, bringing to the role decades of experience and a deep-rooted commitment to the City of New Rochelle, where he was raised and educated. Over the past four years, he has led the department with dedication, compassion, and a steadfast focus on collaboration between law enforcement and the community.
“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,” said City Manager Melendez. “We are working on a transition that will ensure continuity for the department, and will announce further details in the coming weeks.”
“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,” said Police Commissioner Robert Gazzola. “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.”
Police Commissioner Robert Gazzola joined the department in 1986. He rose through the ranks to Sergeant (1993), Lieutenant (1996), and Captain (2002), serving 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. He was appointed Police Commissioner effective July 2021. A proud product of New Rochelle public schools, Commissioner Gazzola holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Iona College and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Marist College.
Commissioner Gazzola’s retirement marks the close of a chapter for the New Rochelle Police Department, and the City extends its sincere gratitude for his unwavering service and dedication.
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.