James Salerno, who has served as Port Washington Police District’s assistant chief since 2004, will become the district’s acting chief effective May 1. Salerno steps into this role when Police Chief William Kilfoil retires after 38 years of service to Port Washington, and 20 years as chief.
Salerno will “remain in that position until such time that the civil service exam can be given to fill the position,” said Police Commissioner Dave Franklin. “Chief Salerno has the full trust and confidence of the board. He is a 28-year veteran of the PWPD, and has been assistant chief for 10 years. The district and the public are in good hands.”
Salerno began his law enforcement career in January 1984 with the New York Police Department. He was hired by the Port Washington Police District on September 7, 1985, and assigned to the patrol division. In October of 1990, Salerno was assigned to the detective division where he investigated juvenile and adult crimes. He remained in that position until April 1, 1994, when he was promoted to sergeant and returned to patrol.
In October of 2000, Salerno was promoted to lieutenant. Thirty days later, he was transferred to administration as Chief Kilfoil’s assistant. In 2004, Salerno was designated assistant chief. During the past 13 years, Salerno has worked closely with Kilfoil.
“He does all the hard work, and I get all the glory,” Kilfoil said. “I am leaving the Police District in very capable hands.”
Chief Salerno has been happily married to his wife Jean for 27 years. They have three children – Christopher, Ashley, and Robert.
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