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Police Chief Kevin Sylvester will be retiring from the Ossining Police Department, effective December 31, 2023.
In his more than 20-year career in Ossining, Chief Sylvester has proven himself to be a leader and an innovator, bringing 21st Century Policing to Ossining, strengthening the use of new technologies, and innovating ways to communicate difficult messages with candor and approachability. His emphasis on the use of social media, including the first Spanish-language police department Facebook page in the country, has made the department more accessible and has helped to humanize his officers by highlighting their hard work under often challenging circumstances.
Thanks to Chief Sylvester, the Ossining Police Department is at the forefront of holistic approaches to policing—under the Chief’s leadership, Ossining jumped at the chance to become one of three communities working with Family Services of Westchester to extend the reach of FSW’s Mobile Crisis Response Team. This innovative partnership was designed to provide police with training and support to stabilize those experiencing mental health crises and connect them with follow-up services as needed in a response to police reform advocacy that was universally supported.
Chief Sylvester, a Marine Corps veteran, also emphasized community outreach, partnering with the school district and local nonprofits to host after-school events on our streets. As police chief, he won many awards and served as president of county and state chiefs of police associations.
While on the force, also serving in the roles of Police Officer and Lieutenant, Chief Sylvester obtained his undergraduate and law degrees and is currently a practicing attorney. He also serves as adjunct faculty at Pace University. The Mayor and Board of Trustees thank the Chief for his service to Ossining and wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors.
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