Senate Resolution No. 1714

BY: Senator GRIFFO

HONORING Police Chief David J. Collins, the first
Black chief in the department and the city's
history, upon the occasion of his retirement from
Rome Police Department

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
honor those distinguished officers and citizens who would devote
themselves to public service, demonstrating great courage and diligence
in providing for the care and welfare of the citizens of their
communities and this great Empire State; and

WHEREAS, Within every community of the State of New York there are
certain individuals who, by virtue of their commitment and dedication,
command the respect and admiration of their community for their
exemplary contributions and service on behalf of others; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Police Chief
David J. Collins, the first Black chief in the department and the city's
history, upon the occasion of his retirement from Rome Police
Department; and

WHEREAS, Moving to Rome, New York at the age of 16 with his father,
who was based at Griffiss Air Force Base as a Master Sergeant for the
United States Air Force, David J. Collins graduated from Rome Free
Academy and joined the United States Army; and

WHEREAS, David J. Collins served over 22 years in the military
between active duty and the reserves before retiring in 2018; and

WHEREAS, Prior to his hire as a Rome police officer in 2005, David
J. Collins was a licensed practical nurse at St. Elizabeth Campus of
the Mohawk Valley Health System in Utica; however, from a young age he
was inspired by his father's role in the Air Force and by the role of
policemen; and

WHEREAS, When David J. Collins was sworn in as the new deputy chief
for the Rome Police Department 2 years ago, it was the first time the
Department had a full change in leadership in almost 14 years; he was a
17-year veteran of the department, having previously served as a
patrolman, sergeant, lieutenant and captain; and Collins served two
years as chief.

WHEREAS, Striving to do his best for the City of Rome, the
community, and the Rome Police Department, Police Chief David J. Collins
said his primary goal as chief was maintaining a positive relationship
with the community, including continuing the Community Advisory
Committee; and

WHEREAS, With him throughout have been his wife, Jeany, and his five
children, all of whom feel privileged to be a part of his life and
rejoice in his achievements; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those
dedicated public servants who unselfishly devote their lives to the
preservation of order and the protection of others are worthy and due
full praise for their commitment and noble endeavors; now, therefore, be
it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Police Chief David J. Collins, the first Black chief in the
department and the city's history, upon the occasion of his retirement
from Rome Police Department; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Police Chief David J. Collins.