Well over 100 people packed common council chambers at Syracuse City Hall Wednesday for the swearing in of the new police chief. Families, law enforcement, elected leaders and community members witnessed Mark Rusin take the oath.
Mayor Sharon Owens got to know her appointed chief as he rose through the ranks during her eight years as deputy mayor. She said he has an iron-clad understanding of police policy, law, and an innovative brain.
"This is probably one of the smartest people I've ever met in my life," Owens said. "I'm serious. And it is that brain coupled with his knowledge of law enforcement, knowledge of constitutional, state, and charter law.”
Rusin took several minutes to individually acknowledge many who turned out for the ceremony, saying they all work as a team to support public safety. He said the city has faced significant challenges, yet made measurable progress.
“Crime has been reduced through targeted strategies, smarter deployment, and stronger partnerships," Rusin said. "Equally important, we have strengthened trust by listening to our community, increasing transparency, and building relationships that are deeper and more meaningful than ever before. But progress is not a finish line. It's a responsibility.”
Rusin said he’s ready to continue innovating and building stronger bonds with the community, as well as focusing on officer wellness, carrying on the main priorities of his predecessor Joe Cecile. The 40-year department veteran attended Rusin's swearing in, the same day he retired.
Also at the ceremony, Rich Trudell was sworn in as the new first deputy chief and David Metz, James Milana, and Jason Tom were promoted to deputy chief.
