Marraccini Selected as Harrison Police Chief

By a slim 3 - 2 majority, the Harrison Town Board has selected Anthony Marraccini as the town's next Police Chief, putting an end to what has been one of the most controversial decisions the board has had to make in recent memory.

Mayor/Supervisor Joan Walsh said that a final decision was made Wednesday night after a two-hour private discussion between the five board members. Walsh, along with Councilman Pat Vetere did not vote in support of Marraccini.

About 30 - 40 people were in town hall Wednesday night to voice their stance on the issue. No public discussion was held then, and Walsh said Wednesday afternoon that she does not expect a public discussion Thursday because "emotions are running high on both sides."

Marraccini was chosen over Lt. Douglas Buschel and Lt. Lawrence Marsall, both of whom are also current members of the Harrison Police Department.

Marraccini was appointed Acting Chief of Police on Jan. 31, following the resignation of then Chief David Hall. During his nearly three months as acting chief, Marraccini oversaw numerous high profile cases including the murder investigation at Manhattanville College and the recent Toyota Prius accident.

He has served as captain for the past 13 years.

In what appears to be an attempt at a compromise between those for and against the selection, Walsh also announced the creation of a liaison position that will now exist between the police department and the town board.

The selection puts an end to what has been a polarizing debate within the town. There was heated debate over the involvement of Councilwoman Marlane Amelio, because of her family ties to Marraccini. The matter was referred to the state comptroller, where it was determined that the relationship was not close enough to warrant Councilwoman Amelio's preclusion from the decision making process.

The appointment is permanent and will likely be one of the biggest decisions the current town administration will make while in office. Walsh acknowledged the gravity of the selection in an interview earlier this month.

"We must choose very carefully," she said. "And select a person who will serve in the very best interest of all the residents of the town."