Sergeant J. Malysa of the New York State Park Police has officially retired after more than 24 years of dedicated service, including notable years assigned to the Palisades Zone.
Sgt. Malysa recently put on his uniform for the final time, marking the conclusion of a long and accomplished career in law enforcement. His public service began in 1986 when he joined the Army National Guard, serving as an E4 Specialist in the Military Police. He completed his military service in 1991 after being deployed overseas during the Persian Gulf War.
In 2002, Malysa joined the New York State Park Police and graduated as a member of the 3rd session basic school. Following graduation, he was assigned to the Central Zone and later the Finger Lakes Zone as a patrol officer. In 2014, he was promoted to the rank of sergeant and assigned to the Palisades Zone, where he served for a number of years before transferring to agency headquarters as part of the academy training staff. He later returned to the Finger Lakes Zone, where he continued serving as a patrol sergeant for the remainder of his career.
During his tenure, Sgt. Malysa also played a significant role in training new recruits, serving at the Park Police Academy for eight classes, including three as the Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge.
Known for his proactive approach to law enforcement, Malysa developed expertise in several specialized areas, including marine patrol, snowmobile enforcement, firearms instruction, Taser deployment, LIDAR, OC spray, and CPR. His work as both an officer and instructor made a lasting impact on the division and its mission.
Colleagues praised Sgt. Malysa for his professionalism, leadership, and commitment to public safety throughout his career.
The New York State Park Police extended their appreciation and best wishes to Sgt. Malysa and his family as he begins his well-earned retirement, closing out a career marked by dedication and service.
