Saratoga County Sheriff Michael Zurlo has announced that he will conclude his nearly 50-year career in law enforcement at the end of this year. On January 2, 2023, Zurlo confirmed that he would retire, marking the end of a tenure that has spanned decades and impacted the community. In an interview with the Saratogian in early December, Zurlo expressed a mix of gratitude and nostalgia, stating that he wanted to savor “every last minute” of a job he has cherished.
Reflecting on his long journey, Zurlo shared, “I love this job. Of my 48 years in law enforcement, the last 12 have probably been the best, but you know when it’s time.” He emphasized the importance of stepping back to enjoy life and spend time with family, particularly his granddaughter.
From Humble Beginnings to Sheriff’s Office
Born and raised in Mechanicville, New York, Zurlo felt a calling to law enforcement from a young age. His ambition became apparent in high school, where classmates wished him luck in his future career. He began his professional journey in 1974 with the Mechanicville Police Department, starting part-time at a wage of $2.90 an hour before transitioning to a full-time role in 1977.
Zurlo’s career truly took off when he joined the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Department on October 19, 1979, following an interview with then-Sheriff James Bowen. Since that time, the department has seen significant growth. “When I first started, there were only about 25 deputies on the road. Now we’ve grown to 325 employees, including 55 in road patrol,” Zurlo noted.
Over the years, he climbed the ranks from deputy to sheriff, fulfilling a lifelong goal. After a brief retirement in 2010, he served as a town justice in Stillwater before being encouraged to run for sheriff. He was elected in 2013 and has remained dedicated to the role ever since.
Community Engagement and Technological Advancements
One of Zurlo’s key objectives as sheriff was to foster community engagement. He made a concerted effort to attend a wide variety of events throughout the county, noting that interaction with the public is essential to the role. “You need to get out and let the public know who you are, what you’re doing,” he stated.
Under Zurlo’s leadership, the department has embraced technological advancements, moving from traditional methods to a more computerized system. He prioritized enhancing the department’s social media presence to keep the community informed about its activities. Additionally, he ensured that deputies had access to the latest equipment to enhance their safety.
One significant initiative was the placement of Student Resource Officers (SROs) in schools, a response to the tragic mass shooting at Parkland, Florida, in 2018. “We need to protect our kids,” Zurlo recalled, highlighting the importance of collaboration with local school districts to ensure safety for students and staff.
Apart from SROs, Zurlo championed various community programs, such as Project Lifesaver, which assists in locating individuals at risk of wandering, and the Blue Envelope Program, designed to enhance communication between law enforcement and drivers on the autism spectrum. He emphasized the importance of community-focused initiatives throughout his tenure.
One of Zurlo’s proudest achievements has been the annual Toys for Tots convoy, which he initiated when he became sheriff. The event has grown significantly, collecting over $1.5 million in toys during his 12 years in office, demonstrating the dedication of his team and the community’s generosity.
As he prepares for retirement, Zurlo reflected on the challenges faced during his tenure, particularly the rise in narcotics and overdose cases. He committed to addressing these issues up until his final day in office, ensuring that his successor, Jeff Brown, would continue this crucial work.
A Fond Farewell and Looking Ahead
With his retirement approaching, Zurlo expressed gratitude to the community for their support throughout his career. He stated, “I just thank them for trusting me and giving me the opportunity to do what I’m doing here.” As he transitions into this new chapter of his life, Zurlo looks forward to spending time traveling and connecting with family.
He has taken steps to ensure a smooth transition for Brown, who was elected sheriff in November 2023. Zurlo acknowledged Brown’s readiness for the role, stating, “He knows the ins and outs, which you have to do in this position.” He reassured residents that they would be in capable hands and that Brown would continue to uphold the values and programs established during his tenure.
As Zurlo steps away from the sheriff’s office, his legacy will endure through the community initiatives he championed and the positive relationships he fostered over his remarkable nearly 50-year career in law enforcement.
