Former Mount Vernon Police Official Accused of Helping Son Escape After Bronx Shooting

A former Mount Vernon Deputy Police Commissioner is facing serious criminal charges, including attempted murder, in connection with a June 29 shooting in the Bronx.

Jennifer Lackard, 49, is accused of helping her 20-year-old son, Chase Lackard, flee the scene after he allegedly shot a rival during what authorities described as a gang-related dispute.

According to the allegations, Jennifer Lackard drove her son away from the area following the shooting, effectively acting as an alleged getaway driver. ABC7 confirmed the accusations against the former law enforcement official, adding another troubling dimension to the case.

Prosecutorial records cited in connection with the investigation indicate that text messages were exchanged between Lackard and her son before the shooting. Investigators are examining those communications as part of the evidence surrounding the alleged events leading up to the incident.

Lackard was fired immediately after her arrest, ending her position with the Mount Vernon Police Department.

The allegations have drawn particular attention because of Lackard’s former law enforcement role. Authorities now accuse her of assisting her son after the alleged shooting, despite her previous position within the criminal justice system.

Chase Lackard, 20, is accused of shooting a rival during the alleged gang dispute. The circumstances surrounding the shooting, including what led to the confrontation and the extent of the victim’s injuries, remain part of the ongoing legal proceedings.

The case against Jennifer Lackard is also still developing. Prosecutors will have to establish their allegations in court, while the defense will have an opportunity to challenge the evidence, including the significance and interpretation of the text messages cited by investigators.

Being arrested or charged does not constitute a finding of guilt. Jennifer Lackard and Chase Lackard are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

The investigation and court proceedings are expected to determine the full circumstances surrounding the Bronx shooting and whether Jennifer Lackard knowingly assisted her son in escaping afterward.

Source: NY Post