Gerald L. Pickering, chief of the Webster Police Department, has been named deputy director of the University of Rochester’s Department of Public Safety. He will start in the new position on Jan. 5.
Since 2001, Pickering has served as Webster police chief, overseeing a force of 32 sworn officers and 10 civilian professionals. A member of the Webster Police Department since 1984, he has also served as operations commander, patrol lieutenant, patrol sergeant, criminal investigator and patrol officer. From 1979-84, he was a police officer with Ontario County’s Sheriff’s Office.
“Gerald Pickering keenly understands the unique safety needs of a large university environment, including the importance of strong partnerships and communication, both on our campuses and in the Rochester community,” said Ronald Paprocki, senior vice president for administration and finance.
“Jerry is a highly respected law enforcement professional and leader,” said Public Safety Chief Mark Fischer. “His extensive experience in investigations and community policing, and his aptitude for effectively using technology will be tremendous assets to our department.”
Pickering graduated in 2004 from the FBI National Academy Class 219 in Quantico, Virginia, with graduate work completed through the University of Virginia. He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice community and human services from the State University of New York Empire State, and an associate’s degree in criminal justice from Finger Lakes Community College.
Pickering serves in an elected position on the New York State Association of Chiefs of Police Board of Governors as the New York State Chiefs of Police Zone 9 Representative. He also has served since 2004 on the board of Fight Crime Invest in Kids New York. He is the current vice president of the Monroe County Chiefs Association, and a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the New York State Chiefs of Police, the FBI National Academy Associates and the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Association.
