Westchester Reporter

Yonkers Police Commissioner Christopher Sapienza and Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano have both expressed their reactions to an incident involving a Yonkers Police Officer. The incident, which took place on March 14, 2024, led to the Officer's actions being scrutinized by the Yonkers Police Department and external agencies.

According to Commissioner Sapienza, the Yonkers Police Department acted swiftly following the incident, placing the involved Officer on restricted duty and initiating an investigation into the use of force. The Department also proactively presented the incident to the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office and the Department of Justice for further investigation.

In a statement, Commissioner Sapienza stated, "Our actions in response to this incident, as opposed to the actions taken by this Officer, accurately represent who we are as a Department and as members of this community." Mayor Spano echoed this sentiment, expressing shock, dismay, and extreme disappointment in the Officer's actions, emphasizing that they do not align with the values of the Yonkers Police Department.

Mayor Spano emphasized the city's commitment to holding the Officer accountable for their actions, stating, "We expect the District Attorney’s Office to do a full and thorough investigation." He also highlighted the overall positive work of the Yonkers Police Department in community policing and crime reduction over the past decade.

The Yonkers Police Department is fully cooperating with the investigation led by the Westchester County District Attorney’s Public Integrity Bureau. Both Commissioner Sapienza and Mayor Spano have conveyed their commitment to seeing the investigation through to its conclusion and ensuring accountability for the Officer involved.