Police Commissioner Kenneth O. Jackson will retire from the Garden City Police Department on January 31, 2026, after a 44-year career in law enforcement. The announcement was made by the Incorporated Village of Garden City, including the Mayor’s Office, Board of Trustees, Village Administrator, and Police Department.
Commissioner Jackson began his law enforcement career as a patrol officer with the New York City Transit Police Department before joining the Garden City Police Department in June 1985. He served in several divisions—Patrol, Tactical, and Detective—and was an Official Training Officer. Over the years, he rose through the ranks: Sergeant in 1991, Lieutenant in 1995, Inspector in 2005, and Commissioner in 2012.
Jackson has also held leadership roles beyond Garden City. He is currently Executive Director of the Nassau County Municipal Police Chiefs Association and previously served as its President. For about two decades he has been second Vice-Chair of the Nassau County Traffic Safety Board and has been on the Board of Governors for the New York State Police Chiefs Association since 2017.
During his tenure as Commissioner, Jackson led efforts to modernize technology and security infrastructure within the department while upgrading personnel resources and equipment. He promoted community policing initiatives that built trust between officers and residents as well as local schools.
“It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve this community and to work alongside the brave men and women of the Garden City Police Department,” said Commissioner Jackson. “I leave knowing that the Department is in strong hands, guided by professionalism, compassion, and the shared goal of keeping our community safe. The values and principles we have exemplified will continue to guide all of us in our duties.”
The Village expressed gratitude for Jackson’s service: “While he will be greatly missed, his legacy of professionalism and commitment to safety will continue to inspire the Department and community alike.”
A formal “walk-out” retirement ceremony honoring Commissioner Jackson is scheduled for Friday, January 30, 2026 at noon at Garden City Police Department Headquarters. The public is invited to attend.
