Wayne Harris

Executive Director

Deputy Chief Wayne Harris (Ret.) began his law enforcement career in 1987  as a patrol officer with the Rochester Police Department in New York. He patrolled the Lake, Clinton, Highland, and Downtown sections for 12 years before he was promoted to sergeant. He was subsequently assigned to the Professional Standards Unit, where he investigated police misconduct. In  2006, he was elevated to a lieutenant and oversaw officers and investigators in the East Division’s first and second platoons. After five years, he was promoted to captain and was responsible for oversight of all patrol operations for the first platoon. In 2014, he became Commander of the West Division and managed all law enforcement personnel and services for western Rochester. In 2016, he was appointed to the position of Deputy Chief of Community  Relations and Engagement where he was charged with strengthening relationships with the local community. Harris retired from policing in 2017 and currently manages a consulting firm. In 2021, he became Board Chair of the Law Enforcement Action Partnership. He is a recipient of department awards including multiple Chief’s  Letters of Recognition, several Captain Letters, a Unit Commendation Award, and an Excellent Police Service  Award. He is a member of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives and formerly served as the organization’s National Financial Secretary. He holds a BS in Organizational Management from Roberts Wesleyan  College and is a graduate of the 244th session of the FBI National Academy.