A history-making appointment in the Irondequoit Police Department. It comes at a time of change for law enforcement across the nation.

Jessica Franco always knew she wanted to be a police officer. Her father was a firefighter. Service runs in the family.

What You Need To Know

  • Jessica Franco becomes the first female captain in the history of the Irondequoit Police Department

  • Serving the community runs in her family, as her father was a firefighter

  • Franco said it was always a goal of hers, and says she wants to be chief someday

  • For now, she is focused on making her department and her community better

"I have a passion to serve,” said Franco, a 13-year veteran of the Irondequoit Police Department. “I have a passion to be a role model for others."

Thirteen years brings many opportunities. This week, Franco, and fellow veteran Mark Jesske were promoted to captain in the department.

“When we look at the people we're appointing, we look at the person,” said Irondequoit Town Supervisor David Seeley. “It's significant that Captain Franco is a female."

The first female captain in the history of the department.

“It means a lot to me,” she said. “It was definitely a goal of mine, and I’m one that if I set my mind to something, I definitely make sure I achieve it."

“It's very exciting for us,” said Alan Laird, Irondequoit police chief. “As law enforcement has changed over the years, we've found it necessary to change with the community and represent the community in a positive manner."

Strong leadership is important for any organization. For police, it may be more important now than ever. Deadly incidents involving police across the country prompted calls for change. 

“With police reform and stuff like that, we need to have that leadership within the police department,” said Laird. “And I think we're going to be in great hands."

“I love being a role model to others,” said Franco. “Especially in this position, for females who want to take that career path into law enforcement."

For Captain Franco, a path that's leading to bigger places.

“I'm up for the challenge,” she said. “There's definitely different responsibilities that come with this position."

Franco says she wants to be chief someday. For now, she'll focus on making her department — and her community —  better.

“The plan moving ahead is putting words into action,” she said. “And I think we're definitely moving in the right direction with that."