Meet Your Heroes – White Plains Public Safety

Sergeant John Fitzsimmons

admin — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 15:27:03 +0000

Sergeant John Fitzsimmons

Born and raised in White Plains, Sergeant John Fitzsimmons is a proud product of the city’s public school system, having attended White Plains schools from elementary through high school. His strong roots in the community have shaped his commitment to public service.

He joined the White Plains Police Department in January 2013, beginning a career dedicated to protecting and serving the residents of his hometown.

Throughout his tenure, Sgt. Fitzsimmons has held a variety of assignments, including Patrol, the Neighborhood Conditions Unit, and the Criminal Investigations Division.

In 2022, he was promoted to Sergeant and returned to the Patrol Division in a supervisory role. In 2024, he assumed full-time responsibility for the Department’s Field Training Program, where he played a key role in developing and mentoring new officers.

Since April of 2026, Sgt. Fitzsimmons has served as the Training Unit Sergeant, continuing his commitment to strengthening the professionalism and readiness of the Department.

FF Justin Lee

admin — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 12:25:07 +0000

FF Justin Lee

Justin Lee, a lifelong resident of White Plains, is a dedicated firefighter transitioning to a career that aligns with serving his community in 2023 after a decade in finance.

Stationed at WPFD’s Headquarters majority of his short career, he truly loves being a versatile firefighter able to ride all apparatus just two blocks away from his childhood home while learning from great colleagues with experience.

He has been a volunteer with the White Plains Youth Bureau for over a decade and started a nonprofit, Brook Scholars Club, with a focus on providing a positive outlet and scholarships for the inner city youth as well as all youth within White Plains. Since inception of the nonprofit in 2019, it has extended scholarships and participation to young adolescents from all over Westchester County and even the tri-state area.

FF Randy Pennella

admin — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 16:04:25 +0000

FF Randy Pennella

Firefighter Randy Pennella has dedicated 35 years of distinguished service to the WPFD, demonstrating unwavering commitment, professionalism, and technical expertise. Since his assignment to Fire Prevention in 1996, he has played a vital role in safeguarding the community through his thorough residential and commercial fire inspections, ensuring compliance with fire codes and promoting public safety.

In addition to his inspection duties, FF Pennella conducts testing and certification of fire alarm and suppression systems in newly constructed and renovated buildings. His attention to detail and deep knowledge of fire protection systems have been instrumental in maintaining the high safety standards expected of the Department.

Beyond his field responsibilities, FF Pennella serves as an integral member of the Department’s data management team, where he oversees critical information systems that support fire prevention, inspection scheduling, and emergency response operations. His technical proficiency and reliability have made him a key resource for ensuring that accurate, up-to-date information is available to firefighters and command staff alike.

Through his decades of service, FF Pennella has exemplified the Department’s core values of dedication, integrity, and excellence, contributing significantly to both the safety of White Plains residents and the operational efficiency of the Fire Department.

Det. Fred Cianci & OFC Homer

admin — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 15:44:36 +0000

Detective Fred Cianci has served White Plains for over 17 years, specializing in crisis intervention, de-escalation, officer training, and mental health outreach. A highly trained FBI-certified instructor and negotiator, he combines expertise with compassion, working to build trust and connect people in crisis to vital resources.

By his side is Homer, a 19-month-old yellow Lab and facility dog. Raised through the Puppies Behind Bars program, Homer now comforts crime victims, supports officer wellness, and helps create safe, calming spaces during difficult moments. Together, Detective Cianci and Homer form a unique partnership—bringing skill, care, and heart to the community they serve.

FF Elliot Eccleston

admin — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 17:38:01 +0000

FF Elliot Eccleston

Firefighter Eccleston is a proud second-generation firefighter, following in the footsteps of his father and carrying on a family tradition of service. With over 12 years of combined experience—first as a volunteer and now, for the past 3.5 years, as a member of the City of White Plains Fire Department—he has shown a steadfast commitment to protecting and serving his community.

In his current role, firefighter Eccleston provides fire suppression,participates in rescue operations, and as a NYS EMT provides medical care to those in need. When not working he involves himself heavily in training to be the best for himself, his brothers and the community he serves.

PO Jenna Colleluori

admin — Sun, 10 Aug 2025 17:00:42 +0000

Officer Jenna Colleluori

Officer Jenna Colleluori is the first female officer to serve in the Emergency Services Unit (ESU) of the White Plains Police Department—a groundbreaking milestone in the unit’s history.

With five years of dedicated service split between White Plains and the NYPD’s 47th Precinct, she has earned a reputation for her exceptional work ethic, determination, and perseverance. Grateful for the opportunity to prove herself, she has not only secured her place on the team but also inspired others to follow in her path.

In her current role, Officer Colleluori provides tactical support to patrol, participates in rescue operations, delivers medical services, and responds to hazardous materials incidents.