‘Standing on the shoulders of giants’

In honor of Black History Month, three high-ranking black executives in the NYPD shared their insights and experiences in a recent interview with The Post. Chiefs Benjamin Gurley, Christopher McIntosh, and Aaron Edwards, who oversee Bronx, Queens South, and Midtown North commands respectively, reflected on the challenges and rewards of their journey to the top ranks of the department.

Chief Benjamin Gurley, a Bronx native and father of three, shared how his early exposure to police cars in his neighborhood sparked his interest in law enforcement. However, as a first-generation cop, he noticed the lack of diversity among executive officers when he joined the force in 2000. Despite facing obstacles in the promotion process, Gurley remained determined and is now a two-star chief, a position he never imagined he would reach.

Chief Christopher McIntosh, who immigrated to the US from Jamaica at a young age, emphasized the importance of mentorship in navigating the system and advancing in his career. McIntosh, who leads patrols in Queens South, highlighted the significant increase in black executive officers since he joined the force in 1998.

Chief Aaron Edwards, who joined the NYPD in 2003, expressed gratitude for the mentors who paved the way for his success. He vividly recalled attending a Black History Month event at One Police Plaza where photos of black executives were displayed on a screen, inspiring him to aspire to reach the same level of leadership.

Despite the challenges they faced, all three chiefs acknowledged the progress that has been made in increasing diversity within the NYPD’s executive ranks. They credited their success to hard work, perseverance, and the support of mentors who helped guide them along the way. As they continue to lead their respective commands, Gurley, McIntosh, and Edwards serve as role models for aspiring black officers in the department, embodying the spirit of Black History Month and the legacy of those who came before them.