Honors Groundbreaking Leaders—First African Americans to Hold Key Public Safety Posts
On Monday, February 9th, the Westchester County Board of Legislators (BOL) celebrated an important milestone in public safety leadership by honoring Wade Hardy, the first African American Public Safety Commissioner in White Plains, alongside Lieutenant Khalia M. Carter, who made history as the first African American to earn the rank of lieutenant in the 177-year history of the Peekskill Police Department. This event marked significant progress in diversifying leadership roles within law enforcement.
The honorees embody the highest standards of professionalism, commitment, and community engagement. Throughout their careers, both Hardy and Carter have demonstrated a dedication to fostering trust and collaboration between public safety institutions and the diverse communities they serve.
BOL Chairman Vedat Gashi (D–New Castle, Ossining, Somers, Yorktown), who organized the ceremony, remarked, “African American Heritage Month is a time to honor leaders whose work has a lasting impact on our communities. Commissioner Hardy and Lieutenant Carter exemplify dedication, professionalism, and leadership. Through their commitment, they have strengthened trust, built meaningful partnerships, and created opportunities that benefit all residents.”
Historically, Mount Vernon was the only municipality in Westchester County to have a Black Police Commissioner. However, significant strides have been made, as now, in 2026, the county boasts four African American leaders in public safety positions, including a Black County Executive. In June 2022, Terrance Raynor was appointed as the first Black Commissioner of the Westchester County Department of Public Safety by County Executive George Latimer, marking a pivotal shift in representation. Two months later, in August, Greenburgh Town Board appointed Captain Kobie Powell as Chief of Police, further amplifying the changes occurring within the region’s law enforcement.
On June 30, 2025, Neil K. Reynolds was sworn in as the first Black Commissioner of the City of New Rochelle. Subsequently, on January 6, 2026, Wade Hardy was officially appointed as White Plains’ new Public Safety Commissioner by Mayor Justin C. Brasch, solidifying further the trend of inclusive leadership in law enforcement.
BOL Vice Chair Terry Clements (D–New Rochelle, Pelham, Pelham Manor) praised Commissioner Hardy’s historic appointment, emphasizing the importance of his leadership style, which prioritizes humility and integrity. “Wade Hardy has performed his duties to the highest standard. He believes that to be a great public servant, you must embody humility. He believes public safety professionals must have the integrity and courage to do what is right, not what is simply convenient,” Clements noted, highlighting Hardy’s exceptional service to the community.
Prior to his current role, Commissioner Hardy served as a lieutenant with the White Plains Police Department, where he led the Community Services Division. His efforts concentrated on supporting at-risk youth, enhancing conditions in public housing, and forming robust partnerships with community leaders. In his earlier career, he was instrumental as a detective sergeant, leading significant investigations with notable achievements, including record-setting drug and asset seizures during a tenure with the Drug Enforcement Administration.
After stepping away from public service for 12 years in corporate security leadership with Con Edison, Hardy returned to the public sphere in 2021 as Deputy Chief Criminal Investigator for the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office. Beyond his responsibilities, he actively participates in various community organizations, including serving on the board of the White Plains Youth Bureau and coaching youth sports teams to victories in multiple championships.
Lieutenant Khalia M. Carter’s promotion as the first African American lieutenant in Peekskill is another significant achievement in this ongoing journey of progress. County Legislator Colin D. Smith (D–Cortlandt, Peekskill, Yorktown) expressed pride in honoring Lieutenant Carter, stating, “During Black History Month, we honor leaders whose service reflects courage, excellence, and progress. Lieutenant Carter’s distinguished career is a powerful example of Black excellence in law enforcement.”
Lieutenant Carter began her law enforcement career with the New York State Office of Mental Health before joining the Peekskill Police Department. Following her promotion to sergeant in 2019, she has now ascended to lieutenant, a groundbreaking milestone for the department. Her role as Commanding Officer of the Community Policing Unit allows her to foster community engagement and transparency initiatives that build essential trust between the police department and the residents of Peekskill.
In addition to her operational duties, Lieutenant Carter oversees the Administrative Division, managing grants and collaborating with the Chief of Police on fiscal planning and operational strategies. She has played a crucial role in various initiatives, including developing a K-9 Unit and enhancing domestic violence prevention efforts. Her educational background includes a Master of Public Administration degree from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, along with a Bachelor of Business Administration and an associate degree. Carter is committed to continuous professional development, evidenced by her graduation from the International Association of Chiefs of Police Women’s Leadership Institute.
