History made: New York County appoints its first Black woman sheriff.
Jackie Salvatore has officially been sworn in as New York’s first Black woman sheriff.
New York is celebrating a historic milestone with the appointment of its first-ever Black woman sheriff.
Jackie Salvatore officially began her tenure following a swearing-in ceremony at the Columbia County Courthouse on January 2, where local leaders gathered to mark the moment, according to MidHudson News.
With nearly three decades of service, Jackie Salvatore brings 28 years of experience from the New York State Police to her new role. Backed by an extensive resume, she steps into this leadership position as a trailblazer for diversity with a strong commitment to protecting and serving her community.
New York Assemblywoman Didi Barrett, who represents the Hudson area, administered the oath of office to Salvatore, praising her as a “pioneering public servant” as she begins this new chapter in law enforcement.
“Today I had the great honor of administering the oath of office to my friend and partner in government, Columbia County Sheriff Jackie Salvatore,” Barrett said in a statement. “With a long and outstanding record of keeping our families and communities safe, Jackie is making history as the first Black woman to serve as sheriff in New York State.”
New York Assemblywoman Didi Barrett, who represents the Hudson area, administered the oath of office to Salvatore, praising her as a “pioneering public servant” as she begins this new chapter in law enforcement.
“Today I had the great honor of administering the oath of office to my friend and partner in government, Columbia County Sheriff Jackie Salvatore,” Barrett said in a statement. “With a long and outstanding record of keeping our families and communities safe, Jackie is making history as the first Black woman to serve as sheriff in New York State.”
Salvatore, a Democrat, entered the race following the retirement of Sheriff Donald Krapf. After previously serving as undersheriff, she went on to defeat Republican Lt. John Rivero to win the position.
A lifelong resident of Columbia County, Salvatore is deeply rooted in the community she now leads. Her campaign emphasized hands-on leadership focused on crime prevention, officer readiness, tackling the opioid crisis, and advancing equity and fairness within the justice system.
Following her victory, Salvatore said she was “humbled” by the support she received and is now set to begin the work she has envisioned as the county’s historic sheriff.
