TOWN OF GREENBURGH SELECTS FIRST AFRICAN-AMERICAN POLICE CHIEF

BY AJ WOODSON

“There are so many people who played a vital role in this appointment and I wanted to go on the record of ensuring we thank them all: The Chairs of GASR Law Enforcement, Police Community Advisory Board, White Plains/ Greenburgh NAACP and the representative for the Council of Civic Associations who too unanimously voted in this appointment,” said Jackson who has placed a special emphasis on working on initiatives that center on highlighting and elevating diversity and inclusion.

Chief Powell will assume the position on August 22, 2022. There will be a formal ceremony at our September 14, 2022, Town Board meeting.

“Chief Powell’s story of “ascending through the ranks,” during his nearly 25-year tenure with the GPD, to ultimately oversee our PD, staffed by 115 sworn officers and 42 civilian members and with an annual budget of $25.5 million, reflects our new Chief’s perseverance and his dedication to Greenburgh and its residents. Chief Powell’s drive and commitment to law enforcement and personal/professional excellence has been the hallmark of his success,” Town Supervisor Paul Feiner shared with Black Westchester.

Captain Kobie Powell has been selected as Greenburgh’s 9th Chief of Police. The First African American to Hold Position. Greenburgh, New York—Friday, August 12, the Town Board will pass a resolution to appoint Captain Powell to the role of Chief of Police for the town of Greenburgh. This historic moment for our town will be held at the Greenburgh Town Hall at 4pm with a follow up pinning ceremony will take place at our next scheduled town board meeting on Wednesday, September 14th.

A 24-year veteran of the Greenburgh Police Department, Captain Powell began serving in 1998 serving progressed through every sworn rank in the department during his career. In April, Captain Kobie Powell received an historic appointment as the first African-American to serve as Greenburgh Police Captain, the second highest rank in the department

“This is truly an HISTORIC moment for the Town. I am extremely honored and exceedingly proud to play in this an important role in appointing the Town’s first African-American Chief of Police,” Town Councilwoman Gina Jackson shared with Black Westchester. “This appointment represents the home-grown talent in Greenburgh prepared to lead one of the most important and critical Town’s operation. I know he is not only capable and qualified but IS ready to protect and serve our community with integrity.”

Captain Powell’s career began as an Emergency Medical Technician and police officer, followed by years as a supervisor in both the Patrol and Detective Divisions. He served the last 5 years on the department’s command staff, reporting directly to the Chief of Police. Participated on various community committees, such as Police Community Advisory Committee (PCAC) and Greenburgh Against Systemic Racism Law Enforcement (GASR) and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice.