Additional Coverage:
A public safety official from a New York state police department has been charged with multiple crimes, including attempted murder, for allegedly assisting her son in escaping after a gang-related shooting in New York City, authorities report.
Jennifer Lackard, 49, was taken into custody on Tuesday in connection with a June 29 shooting incident in the Bronx. According to police, Lackard, who served as the deputy commissioner of wellness for the Mount Vernon Police Department’s public safety division, is accused of acting as the getaway driver for her son, Chase Lackard, 20, who is the suspected shooter. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident.
The Mount Vernon Police Department announced that Lackard has been terminated from her position effective immediately. In a statement, the department emphasized that the allegations are unrelated to her official duties and did not arise from any conduct connected to her role within the department.
Due to the ongoing investigation being handled by the Bronx County District Attorney’s Office, the police department declined to provide further comment on the case.
Both Jennifer and Chase Lackard face charges including attempted murder, attempted assault, criminal possession of a firearm, conspiracy, and reckless endangerment, as confirmed by the New York Police Department. Neither has been arraigned yet. Jennifer Lackard’s attorney stated she was unavailable for comment, while the son’s attorney could not be reached.
Authorities say the shooting occurred just before midnight on June 29, with Chase allegedly firing at a rival gang member without hitting anyone. He then reportedly fled the scene in a vehicle driven by his mother.
The investigation remains active as the case proceeds through the legal system.