Niagara County Sheriff's Office announces leadership promotions

Niagara County Sheriff’s Office press release & photo

Niagara County Sheriff Michael J. Filicetti recently announced several key leadership promotions within the Niagara County Sheriff's Office. These appointments recognize outstanding service, proven leadership, and a commitment to the agency's mission of protecting and serving the residents of Niagara County.

Filicetti promoted Chief Deputy Robert M. Richards to the position of undersheriff, where he will serve as the second-in-command of the NCSO.

Richards began his career with the NCSO in 2006 after previously serving with the Middleport Police Department and the Village of Barker Police Department. Throughout his career, he has earned a reputation as a dedicated law enforcement professional and respected leader. During his tenure with the NCSO, Richards has served as a road patrol deputy, STOP-DWI coordinator, community services lieutenant, administrative captain, and chief deputy of administration. His broad experience has provided him with an extensive understanding of every facet of the NCSO, from patrol operations and community engagement to administrative leadership and strategic planning. Richards has also received numerous awards recognizing his excellence in the performance of his duties, reflecting his unwavering commitment to professionalism and public service.

As, Richards will oversee the day-to-day operations of the NCSO while working closely with Filicetti to advance the agency's mission and continue providing exceptional service to the citizens of Niagara County.

"Robert Richards has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, integrity and professionalism throughout his career," Filicetti said. "His extensive operational and administrative experience, combined with his sound judgment and commitment to our employees and the community, make him exceptionally well qualified to serve as undersheriff. I have complete confidence in his ability to help lead this organization into the future."

Filicetti promoted Administrative Capt. Daniel J. Zimmerman to chief deputy – administration.

Zimmerman joined the NCSO in 2013, bringing valuable prior law enforcement experience from both the Lewiston Police Department and the Village of Youngstown Police Department. During his career with the NCSO, Zimmerman has served as a road patrol deputy, community services lieutenant, administrative captain, STOP-DWI coordinator, field training officer, police instructor, and adviser to the Sheriff's Office Explorer Post. His diverse assignments have demonstrated his ability to lead personnel, mentor future law enforcement officers, and manage complex administrative responsibilities. In his new role, Zimmerman will oversee the administrative functions of the NCSO, ensuring continued operational excellence and organizational efficiency.

"Daniel Zimmerman has proven himself to be an exceptional leader throughout his career," Filicetti said. "His experience, dedication, and attention to detail have prepared him well for this role. He has earned the respect of his peers and consistently demonstrated the leadership qualities necessary to succeed as chief deputy of administration."

Filicetti promoted Capt. Thomas J. Huff to chief deputy – operations.

Huff began his career with the NCSO in 2009 after previously serving with the New York State Park Police. Throughout his tenure, he has held numerous leadership positions, including road patrol deputy, school resource officer, community services lieutenant, administrative captain, road patrol captain, captain of the Niagara County Drug Task Force, and co-director of the Niagara County Law Enforcement Academy. He also currently serves as the commander of the sheriff's emergency response team. His extensive operational experience, leadership under demanding circumstances, and commitment to training have made him a highly respected leader within the agency and throughout the law enforcement community. As chief deputy – operations, Huff will oversee the law enforcement division of the NCSO, ensuring the continued delivery of professional, effective and responsive public safety services.

"Thomas Huff has built an impressive career through hard work, leadership, and a commitment to excellence," Filicetti said. "His operational experience, tactical expertise, and dedication to training and developing our personnel make him exceptionally qualified to lead our operations. I look forward to his continued leadership in this critical position."

These promotions reflect the NCSO’s continued commitment to developing leaders from within the organization and ensuring experienced, highly qualified professionals are in place to lead the agency into the future.

Filicetti thanked the promoted members and their families for their continued dedication and service: "These appointments represent decades of combined law enforcement experience and a shared commitment to serving the residents of Niagara County with honor, integrity and professionalism. I am proud to have these outstanding leaders serving in these important roles."