MONTICELLO - Chief Jay Corley brings with him not just decades of law enforcement experience but also a lineage steeped in police tradition.

Chief Corley’s journey into law enforcement was almost predestined, growing up in a household where service and duty were not just values but a way of life.

His father, a Department of Corrections Sergeant and a Korean War veteran, laid the foundation for a legacy that Corley has not only inherited but also plans to build upon.

This generational torch of commitment to public service has now passed to Corley’s son, a New York State Trooper, signifying the continuation of a profound family tradition in law enforcement.

Chief Corley, who grew up in the Northeast Bronx, moved to Sullivan County after finishing high school. There, he started college at Sullivan County Community College and worked at several hotels, securing the job through his brother, who was already living in the Catskills.

“My brother moved up here for work, and then the rest of the family subsequently moved up over the course of 15, 20 years,” said Corley.

Before his recent appointment, Corley’s career spanned over 27 years across different capacities within Sullivan County’s law enforcement community before becoming Monticello’s first African American Chief of Police. 

His tenure began in the Town of Fallsburg under Chief Simmie Williams and later transitioned to the Village of Monticello, where he served the majority of his career.

When Corley was sworn in as the new Police Chief of the Village of Monticello, the date marked over two decades since he first took the oath to become an officer.

Throughout, Corley has been a staunch advocate for community policing, a philosophy he plans to deepen during his tenure as chief.

His experiences, particularly as a school resource officer in the Monticello Central School District, Corley says, have underscored his belief in the power of police-community engagement.

“My time in the school was significant because I was able to work with such a broad range of families,” said Chief Corley.

These years allowed him to build lasting relationships, understanding the community’s dynamics, and fostering a trust that would be pivotal in his leadership approach as chief according to Chief Corley.

Chief Corley takes the position when law enforcement agencies nationwide are grappling with complex issues ranging from the opioid crisis to the imperatives of community trust and racial equity.

“I’m going to try to do a good job, I’m going to try to protect and serve my community, the village of Monticello, because they embraced me,” said Corley.

The Chief’s approach to these challenges is rooted in a clear vision for the future, emphasizing engagement, transparency, and inclusivity.

Reflecting on the opioid epidemic, Corley acknowledges the devastation it has wrought on Sullivan County and the broader national landscape. He sees the Monticello Police Department as a key player in a multifaceted response, stressing the importance of collaboration with public health agencies, community stakeholders, and other law enforcement agencies to address this scourge effectively.

“It’s tragic [opioids], and it has devastated this area, as well as around the country, for that matter,” said Chief Corley.

Moreover, he says his leadership philosophy has been influenced by his reflections on the societal shifts following the tragic events that led to the George Floyd protests towards the start of the decade.

Recognizing the profound impact of these events on community-police relations, he advocates for ongoing dialogue, diversity within the ranks, and initiatives that bridge gaps between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

Facing staffing challenges, Chief Corley says he looks to strengthen the department by fostering a culture of growth, development, and respect for the community.

He envisions a Monticello Police Department that not only responds to crime but also proactively engages with residents, building relationships that transcend traditional law enforcement roles.

He extends this vision to addressing internal challenges and criticisms openly, inviting dialogue and feedback as ways for growth and improvement.

Chief Corley aims to reinforce the Village of Monticello Police Department’s role as a pillar of the community, striving not just for safety and security, but for unity and mutual respect.

“I believe the Village of Monticello is up to the challenge,” he added.