In Memory of Detective Jack V. Polimeni

New York Loses Detective to Virus

New York authorities were devastated to brief the public about losing a local detective to the coronavirus pandemic. COVID19 had hit the New York- Tri-State Area extremely hard. Many lives were lost. On April 10, 2020, Detective Polimeni, age 50, passed away due to complications from the virus. He had served the residents of New York City for more than 23 years as a law enforcement officer. His most recent assignment was with the Manhattan Warrant Squad.

Polimeni is the second officer lost by the NYPD to the virus.

New York City Police Department

The New York City Police Department has a rich history. It originated as part of the New York City Government and replaced the inadequate night watch system that had worked until the mid-1800s. The city modeled the new department similar to that in London, and it officially began in 1845. The need for the new department was due to the increase in population in the city, which also came with an increase in crime rates and poverty. In 1857, the Municipal Police was replaced by the Metropolitan Police, and other departments in the area were included and worked with closely.

One of the first major incidents in which the department came to show its resolve was during the Astor Place Riot of 1849. The department stood tall against the trouble in the area and put the riot under quick control. Initially, the policemen in the department were only required to wear a badge, but a uniform became a standard issue and a requirement for officers in 1854.

Detective Jack V. Polimeni served with the NYPD for more than 23 years. During his service, he wore badge number 642. His willingness to put his community first hometown and the pride he took in serving the department showed that he appreciated the history behind the badge.

Remembrances

Detective Jack V. Polimeni leaves behind his wife, mother, and sister. In New York and surrounding areas, the law enforcement officers came together to create a mile-long escort to take Polimeni to his final resting place. Full honors are given at the funeral for the sacrifice he made to his community.

Chris Greco, President of the New Rochelle Police Benevolence Association, shared the loss of Polimeni on social media. “RIP Detective Jack V. Polimeni NYC Police Benevolent Association. Please continue to pray for all first responders and other essential workers battling on the front lines and who have fallen ill. Special prayers and well wishes are extended to the dozens of New Rochelle Police, New Rochelle Community Service Officers, and New Rochelle Firefighters. They are currently sick and fighting this illness. Stay Safe and Stay Home!”

The Detectives’ Endowment Association President Paul DiGiacomo shared prayers for the family of Deputy Polimeni. “The prayers of every member of the Detectives’ Endowment Association are with Detective Polimeni’s loving wife and family. We will forever be here to support them.”

NYPD Police Commissioner Dermot Shea thanked the Detective for his service and sacrifice. “Today and always, we vow to never forget what they mean to us and to all the New Yorkers they served.”