NEW ROCHELLE, NY (July 3, 2025) — Neil K. Reynolds, a 30-year veteran of the New Rochelle Police Department (NRPD), was sworn in as the city’s new Police Commissioner during a ceremony at City Hall on June 30, following the retirement of Commissioner Robert Gazzola.
Reynolds, who served as Deputy Police Commissioner since 2023, began his career with the NRPD in 1994 as a Patrol Officer. He progressed through roles including P.A.C.T officer, where he taught D.A.R.E. and served as a bicycle officer, as well as Detective in the Property Theft Unit, Sergeant and Lieutenant in the Patrol Division, Detective Lieutenant in Internal Affairs, and Captain. His extensive experience and commitment to public service paved the way for his appointment.
“Commissioner Reynolds has proven himself as a steady, forward-thinking leader,” City Manager Wilfredo Melendez said. “He not only brings decades of experience, but a deep, earned understanding of New Rochelle – its people, its neighborhoods, and the evolving role of public safety in our community.”
Reynolds expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the department. “It’s the greatest honor of my career to lead the department I’ve served in for so long,” he said. “New Rochelle is my home, and I’ve dedicated myself to protecting and improving it for more than 30 years.”
As Commissioner, Reynolds aims to advance community engagement through neighborhood-based policing, enhance officer wellness and training, improve public safety technology, and support the city’s Quality of Life Initiative. He emphasized strengthening trust and ensuring residents feel “safe, respected, and heard.”
Reynolds holds a Bachelor’s degree from Iona College and a Juris Doctor from Pace University School of Law. He is licensed to practice law in New York State and federally in the Southern District of New York. His career accolades include the Police Commissioner’s Award, three Class “C” citations, seven commendations, two Life Saving Awards, and the Problem Solver of the Year Award. He has also received public service awards from organizations including the NAACP, the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, and the Westchester/Rockland Guardians Association.
Reynolds is involved in several professional and civic organizations, such as the Police Executive Research Forum, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, and the NAACP–New Rochelle Branch.
Gazzola, the outgoing commissioner, retires after nearly 40 years with the NRPD. Reynolds pledged to build on the department’s progress, focusing on service, equity, and excellence.
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.
