Mount Vernon official accused of driving son from Bronx gang shooting scene
MOUNT VERNON, New York (WABC) -- Mount Vernon's deputy commissioner of public safety was arrested for allegedly being the getaway driver for her son, who was wanted in a shooting in the Bronx.
Jennifer Lackard, 49, and her son were arrested at their home on Boynton Avenue Tuesday morning.
Her son is accused of opening fire from a vehicle on June 29, behind the Bronx Criminal Courthouse at East 162nd Street and Grand Avenue.
He was allegedly aiming at another man who was with a rival gang, but did not strike anyone.
She is accused of being behind the wheel at the time and driving away.
She and her son, 20-year-old Chase Lackard, were both charged with attempted murder, attempted assault, criminal possession of a firearm, conspiracy and reckless endangerment.
In 2024, Chase, a reputed member of the "Slutty Gang," was shot by police.
In 2023, he was shot in the chest on a BX5 bus in Soundview.
The shooting is linked to an ongoing gang dispute.
The City of Mount Vernon released a statement:
"The Mount Vernon Police Department is aware of the criminal charges filed by the Bronx County District Attorney's Office against former Deputy Commissioner of Wellness, Jennifer Lackard.
"Effective immediately, the City of Mount Vernon has terminated Jennifer Lackard's employment.
"The allegations are unrelated to her duties with the Mount Vernon Police Department and do not stem from any conduct associated with the Department or the performance of her official responsibilities.
"The Mount Vernon Police Department remains fully committed to its nationally recognized Wellness Unit. The department will continue to operate without interruption, and the critical wellness services and support it provides to our officers, civilian employees, their families and the community at large will continue as part of the Department's ongoing commitment to the health and well-being of its workforce.
"As this is an active criminal matter being prosecuted by the Bronx County District Attorney's Office, the Mount Vernon Police.
"Department will not comment on the underlying allegations."
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