GATES, N.Y. — After nine years as Gates Police Chief, James VanBrederode has announced he will be retiring at the end of the week.
VanBrederode has spent 37 years in law enforcement, three years with the Rochester Police Department and 34 with the Gates Police Department.
The Chief has served as the president of the Monroe County Chief’s Association since 2017 and has been an advocate for crime victims, speaking out against criminal justice reforms. He also worked hard to get resources for those fighting substance abuse.
VanBrederode wants to continue his fight for change on a legislative level and says he is considering a run for office.
"If I really want to effectuate change I need to get myself in a position where legislative decisions are made," said VanBrederode. "So I'm weighing my options right now. I'm seeing exactly what seat would be available in New York state. As you know the whole state is up this year. Every seat from the Governor to the Assembly to the Senate I really believe that's where I need to be to represent the victims of crime."
He says it has been an honor to serve the Gates community.
Robert Long, a 17-year veteran of the department, will be acting chief until he is officially appointed at the February 7 town board meeting.
