New Syracuse Police Chief Sworn In
What to Know
- Mark Rusin, with nearly 20 years of service, was sworn in as Syracuse's new police chief in a ceremony attended by community members and officials.
- Rusin committed to building on the department's progress, including a decrease in crime in 2025 and ongoing efforts to strengthen police-community relationships.
- Mayor Sharon Owens highlighted Rusin's deep understanding of police policy and law, praising his intelligence and dedication to public service.
SYRACUSE, N.Y. — About 80 people packed into the Syracuse Common Council chambers Wednesday afternoon to watch the swearing-in ceremony for the city’s new police chief.
The crowd, including state and local officials, looked on as Mark Rusin recited the oath of office as Mayor Sharon Owens read it. Rusin’s wife and two young children were by his side as he took the oath.
Rusin, 42, who has been with the department for nearly 20 years, takes over from Chief Joe Cecile, who retired Wednesday after more than 40 years with the department, including four as chief.
Rusin, in a speech after he took the oath, reflected on his years of experience in the department.
“The profession changed the trajectory of my life,” Rusin said. “I will forever be grateful for the opportunity, and I will remain committed to honoring it every single day.”
Rusin said he promises to build on the work that was done by the department under the previous administration. In 2025, crime in all categories fell in Syracuse compared to the year before, a trend seen in other cities across the nation.
“Progress is not a finish line, it’s a responsibility,” he said. “We will continue the tireless pursuit of enhanced public safety, stronger police-community bonds and officer wellness.”
Owens told the crowd that she chose Rusin as the city’s next police chief due to his deep understanding of police policy and law, calling him “probably one of the smartest people I’ve ever met in my life.”
“You all are going to get to know him better,” she said. “You’re going to be first witness to that mind of his and that commitment to the police department and this community.”
The following officers were also sworn in on Thursday as Rusin’s new deputy chiefs:
- First Deputy Chief Richard Trudell
- David Metz, Deputy Chief, Investigations Bureau
- James Milana, Deputy Chief, Uniform Bureau
- Jason Tom, Deputy Chief, Support Services Bureau
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