Full Breakdown
Deputy Commissioner Charged Over Bronx Courthouse Shooting
8/7/2026, 7:56:17 PM
Core Incident
On June 29, Chase Lackard, 20, fired a semiautomatic handgun from the rear-side window of a tan Chrysler Pacifica toward a group standing behind the Bronx Hall of Justice on East 162nd Street and Grand Avenue. No one was struck. Prosecutors allege that Jennifer Lackard, 49, then deputy commissioner of public safety for the Mount Vernon Police Department, drove the family to the courthouse, coordinated the timing via text messages, and later acted as the getaway driver, transporting her son and husband James Lackard away from the scene. All three were indicted on multiple counts, including second-degree attempted murder, conspiracy and firearm offenses. Jennifer Lackard was terminated immediately after her arrest and is being held on $75,000 bail; her son remains in custody, and James Lackard’s status varies across reports.
Background & Career
Jennifer Lackard was sworn in on July 21 2020 as the deputy commissioner for special initiatives (later wellness) in Mount Vernon, a role created during the George Floyd protests. She was noted for work on re-entry programs and the department’s Wellness Division, which provides behavioral-health support. Her husband, James Lackard, previously served a federal drug-trafficking sentence and co-founded a mental-health treatment center.
Data & Statistics
- Charges: second-degree attempted murder, conspiracy, criminal use of a firearm, attempted assault, reckless endangerment, and weapon possession (all three defendants).
- Bail: $75,000 for Jennifer Lackard; her son faces no bail.
- Salary: $125,000 annual salary for Jennifer Lackard in 2026.
- Prior incidents: Chase Lackard was arrested for gun-related offenses in 2024 and was shot by police in 2023 during a gang-related bus fight.
Official Statements & Responses
Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark called the alleged conspiracy “stunning” given the public official’s position. The Mount Vernon Police Department said the allegations are unrelated to Lackard’s official duties and would not comment further on the investigation. Bronx Assistant District Attorney Keturah Ladd described the vehicle switch after the shooting, noting that James Lackard initially drove the van before swapping seats with his wife, who then returned the family to their residence. Tim Allen, director of communications for the Mount Vernon Police Department, reiterated awareness of the criminal charges and the immediate termination of Lackard’s employment.
On-the-Ground Reports
A 78-year-old neighbor who witnessed the early-morning arrest described Lackard as “shocked” and noted that she did not cry. The neighbor also recounted caring for the Lackards’ developmentally disabled younger son after officers left.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on James Lackard’s custody status. Fox 5 NY reported that he turned himself in on a Thursday following the arrests, while other outlets indicated he remained at large in North Carolina with no clear indication of arrest. The indictment lists him as a co-defendant, but no formal charge or arrest has been confirmed in all reports.
What’s Next
Jennifer Lackard is scheduled to appear in court again in September, with her son’s next hearing set for the following month. The investigation into the June 29 shooting continues, and authorities will examine additional evidence, including a firearm found in Chase Lackard’s bedroom.
