Deputy Police Commissioner Fired After Attempted Murder Arrest 2026

A deputy police commissioner in New York was fired after being arrested for allegedly acting as a getaway driver in an attempted murder case. The incident raises serious questions about accountability and ethics within law enforcement leadership.

Jennifer Lackard, 49, served as the deputy police commissioner for safety in Mount Vernon, New York. She was terminated effective immediately after her arrest on Tuesday, according to an official statement from the city. The arrest came after an early morning raid at her home in the Bronx.

Details of the Incident

Lackard and her 20-year-old son, Chase Lackard, were charged with attempted murder, attempted assault, gun possession, conspiracy, and reckless endangerment. The charges stem from a shooting that occurred on June 29 outside Bronx criminal court. Police sources told the New York Daily News that Chase was the alleged gunman, and Jennifer drove the getaway car at high speed after the shots were fired.

Fortunately, no one was struck or injured during the shooting. However, the incident has led to a swift response from the Mount Vernon police department, which emphasized that the charges are unrelated to her official duties.

Official Statement and Termination

The city of Mount Vernon released a statement confirming the termination: "The Mount Vernon police department is aware of the criminal charges filed by the Bronx county district attorney's office against former deputy commissioner of wellness, Jennifer Lackard. Effective immediately, the city of Mount Vernon has terminated Jennifer Lackard's employment. The allegations are unrelated to her duties with the Mount Vernon [police] and do not stem from any conduct associated with the department or the performance of her official responsibilities."

According to the See Through NY government transparency website, Lackard's salary was $138,219 in 2025. This incident highlights the potential for even high-ranking officials to face serious legal consequences.

Background of the Son

Chase Lackard had previously been shot multiple times, according to reports. In January 2023, when he was 17, he was reportedly shot in the chest on a bus in a dispute over gang signs. This history adds complexity to the case, as it may suggest a pattern of involvement in violent incidents.

The investigation is ongoing, and more details may emerge as the legal process unfolds.

Comparison of Charges and Potential Penalties

Key Takeaways

• Jennifer Lackard was fired from her position as deputy police commissioner.
• She and her son face multiple serious charges.
• The shooting occurred outside a Bronx courthouse, but no injuries were reported.
• The city emphasized that the alleged conduct was unrelated to her official duties.
• Lackard's salary was over $138,000, highlighting the stakes for public officials.

Implications for Law Enforcement Accountability

This case underscores the importance of accountability in law enforcement. Even high-ranking officials are not above the law. The swift termination sends a message that misconduct will not be tolerated, regardless of position.

It also raises questions about how such incidents affect public trust in police departments. Transparency and swift action are crucial to maintaining credibility.

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