Captain Cook: First Woman to Command NYSP Troop D, Zone 3
A New Era for NYSP Troop D: Captain Casey Cook Makes History in Zone 3 Command
The New York State Police (NYSP) has made a landmark appointment, naming Captain Casey A. Cook as the new Zone Commander for Troop D, Zone 3. Effective June 5, 2025, Captain Cook, 45, of Camden, NY, becomes the first woman to hold this command in the zone’s history (1). This appointment signifies a notable advancement for women in law enforcement and reflects the ongoing evolution within the NYSP.
A Trailblazer in Blue: Captain Cook’s Journey
Captain Cook’s path to this historic command is built on extensive experience and deep community roots. A lifelong Central New York resident and a 2002 SUNY Oswego graduate, she joined the NYSP on September 9, 2002 (1).
Her career shows a consistent rise through the ranks:
| Date of Action | Rank / Position | Assignment / Location | Source(s) |
| September 9, 2002 | Joined NYSP / Basic School | State Police Academy | 1 |
| May 2013 | Promoted to Investigator | SP Marcy | 1 |
| Late 2013 | Attained permanent rank of Sergeant | SP Marcy (Investigative) | 1 |
| August 2015 | Transferred (Bureau of Criminal Investigation – BCI) | SP Oneida | 1 |
| November 2021 | Promoted to Lieutenant | Troop E | 1 |
| March 2022 | Returned as BCI Lieutenant | Troop D | 1 |
| Effective June 5, 2025 | Appointed Zone Commander (Captain) | Troop D, Zone 3 | 1 |
Her significant tenure in the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) highlights a strong investigative background (1).
Leading Troop D, Zone 3
As Zone 3 Commander, Captain Cook oversees Jefferson, Lewis, and Oswego Counties, a region with 14 facilities (1). This area’s proximity to an international border brings unique public safety challenges, aligning with NYSP Superintendent Steven G. James’ focus on counterterrorism and transnational crime (4). She succeeds Captain Darren Forgea, now reassigned to Troop D Zone 2 (1).
Shattering Glass Ceilings: Female Leadership in Law Enforcement
Captain Cook’s appointment is a significant step in a traditionally male-dominated field. Nationally, women comprised 12.6% of local sworn officers in 2019, but only about 3.4% of police chiefs were women in 2020 (5). In New York State, women made up 16% of all police officers in 2022, with the NYSP workforce being approximately 20-21% female (7).
New York State Police: Championing Diversity
The NYSP is part of the “30×30 Initiative,” aiming for 30% female representation in recruit classes by 2030 (9). Governor Kathy Hochul has voiced support for diversifying ranks (9). The NYSP has reportedly exceeded this 30% target in some recent classes, reaching around 35% female representation (11). The 30×30 Initiative also focuses on fostering an inclusive culture (9), a goal reflected in the NYSP’s value of “Diversity” (13).
The Value of Diverse Perspectives in Policing
Increased female presence in law enforcement is linked to more effective policing. Studies show female officers are:
- Less likely to use excessive force (14).
- More skilled in de-escalation techniques (14).
- Associated with improved outcomes in cases of violence against women, with higher reporting and clearance rates for such crimes (14).
- Often perceived as more honest and compassionate, enhancing police-community relations (5).
- Contribute to more creative problem-solving within agencies (14).
These attributes align with Superintendent James’ priorities of building community trust and modernizing the force (16). His focus on effective public safety, crime reduction, and agency staffing is supported by fostering an inclusive environment where leaders like Captain Cook can advance (4).
Looking Ahead: Captain Cook’s Command
Captain Cook’s leadership is poised to positively impact Zone 3 and the NYSP.
Impact on Zone 3 Communities
The communities in Jefferson, Lewis, and Oswego Counties face typical public safety issues like rural crime, drug offenses, and domestic violence (17). A leadership style emphasizing communication and community engagement can be particularly effective here. Captain Cook’s visibility can foster greater trust and approachability.
Inspiring a New Generation
As the first woman to command Zone 3, Captain Cook serves as a powerful role model, potentially inspiring more young women to pursue careers in law enforcement. Her appointment reinforces the NYSP’s commitment to valuing talent regardless of gender, supporting the agency’s mission of Service, Leadership, Integrity, and Diversity (13).
A Milestone Achieved, A Future Forged
Captain Casey A. Cook’s appointment as Zone Commander is a historic achievement for her and for women in New York State law enforcement. It reflects her dedication and the NYSP’s commitment to diversity and the recognized benefits women bring to policing.
This milestone underscores the ongoing journey toward representative and equitable law enforcement. As citizens, supporting initiatives like 30×30 and advocating for diversity in policing helps build safer, stronger communities where law enforcement reflects the populations they serve.
