Profiles in the NYSP

Colonel Pedro J Perez, Division Headquarters

Colonel Pedro J. Perez joined the New York State Police on October 19, 1981, soon after the birth of his first child because he wanted to make New York State a safe place to live for his wife and children. On March 8, 2007, Colonel Perez became the first Hispanic in the 90 year history of the New York State Police to have attained the rank of Full Colonel. This veteran of the New York State Police has served the Division in many specialized capacities during his years of service, often being the first Latino to serve in those positions. He currently serves as the Deputy Superintendent - Field Commander, and as such he commands all Uniform and Bureau of Criminal Investigation operations for the NYSP. Born and raised on the Lower Eastside of Manhattan, Colonel Perez has earned several college degrees including a Masters Degree in Public Administration. He stated that he could not have achieved any of these successes without the support of his loving family.

Investigator Musco Millner, III, Forensic Identification Unit, Troop D

There exists no moment in time that I regret my career choice; becoming a member of the New York State Police. I have been a member since 1993 and have enjoyed all fourteen years. I chose this career with the intention of being in a position where I could make a difference in and give back to the community where I was raised. The State Police has afforded me the opportunity to continue my education while being employed full-time and I am currently working toward my master’s degree. The benefits, a twenty-year retirement, competitive salary, promotional/advancement opportunities and healthcare ensure not only my future but also the future of my two daughters.

Sergeant Gary Richardson, Station Commander, Troop T

I have been a New York State Trooper for 14 ½ yrs. After completing my service in the United States Air Force, I wanted to pursue a new and exciting career as a State Trooper. Although I had many opportunities in other career fields, the New York State Police was the only one that could provide me with everything that I was looking for. Advancement, career progression, specialized units and a flexible work schedule were some of the attributes that I deemed important in a career. The New York State Police has fulfilled all of them and much more. I have had the unique opportunity to work as a Minority Recruiter traveling to many states outside of our own. I have also worked in New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina and participated in New York City during 911. If you are looking for a life changing career, this is it. Taking the exam is the first step!

Sergeant Scott Nell, Station Commander Troop D

I joined the New York State Police 19 years ago, attracted by the reputation of the organization and its para-military structure, as well as the opportunity to serve my community. During my first 13 years as a trooper, I served as a Field Training Officer, a firearms instructor and a rifleman. I also spent 9 years as a member of the tactical Mobile Response Team. These assignments afforded me the opportunity to participate in details across New York State, including the World University Games in Buffalo, Goodwill Games in Lake Placid, and Woodstock. I have participated in numerous searches for escaped felons as well as high risk warrant executions.

The last 6 years I have spent as a station supervisor, helping mentor troopers in their daily patrol duties. My career with the state police has been very rewarding and has afforded me many opportunities that I don’t believe I would have had outside of this profession.

Trooper Jason M. Haag, Troop E

I graduated from college and decided to pursue a career in Law Enforcement. The elite status of the New York State Police made for an easy decision when I was offered a position in the November 1999. Working as a Trooper has been both challenging and rewarding. I have participated in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, undercover work, multi agency initiatives and the State Fair detail.

Currently I am a Field Training Officer, entrusted with the responsibility of training recent graduates of the police academy with the day-to-day responsibilities of being a State Trooper. I have also received additional training as a Drug Recognition Expert and regularly examine people under arrest for driving while their ability is impaired by drug use.

A career with the New York State Police is not for everybody. Those that are selected and graduate from the academy will have the opportunity to work for one of the most respected law enforcement agencies in the country.

Captain Gilberto Perez, Troop T

I have been with the Division of State Police for over 23 years. I am of Hispanic descent, and was raised in the Bronx of New York City. When I decided to join the New York State Police, I was looking for a career that would not only be exciting and personally rewarding, but that would also allow me to reach out and help others. The New York State Police has fulfilled all of my career's expectations. In addition, the New York State Police afforded me the opportunity to advance my education and obtain my Masters Degree in Public Administration. If you are looking for a career that affords you the opportunity for personal advancement, that would provide you with excitement, financial security and stability, while allowing you to do your part in giving back to the community, the New York State Police is the career for you.

Zone Sergeant Robert Myers III, Troop L

I am a Zone Sergeant in the New York State Police. I joined the NYSP November 29, 1994 and spent the first year on the job in Westchester County. I have had the opportunity to work as a Field Training Officer and prior to being promoted to the rank of Sergeant, taught courses at the academy.

I have always known that I wanted to be a Police Officer. I initially went into the US Army where I became a Paratrooper which was a great experience because it demanded the highest dedication and required me to strive to exceed the standard in everything I did. When I left the Army, I decided I would settle for nothing but the best. That is why I chose to join the New York State Police where I have served proudly for 12 years.

Christopher Neidert, Division K-9

After serving in the United States Marine Corps I chose to join the NYSP because I was impressed by their professionalism and integrity.

During my 9 years I have been assigned to a variety of details including the 9/11 attack, Woodstock, the NYS Fair, the PGA Championship and New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. I am currently assigned to Division K-9 with my partner, ‘Sperr’, and we are in training for narcotics detection, tracking and handler protection at the canine training facility in Cooperstown, NY. Being a K-9 handler has always been an aspiration for me within the State Police.

The opportunities given to my family and I have been nothing but rewarding. Although it can be challenging at times, the experiences and memories I have gained will last a lifetime. I could not have hoped for a more worthwhile career.