Former Mount Vernon police official accused of helping son flee after alleged Bronx gang shooting

Prosecutors allege Jennifer Lackard drove her son from the scene after a June shooting outside a Bronx courthouse; both have pleaded not guilty.

A former Mount Vernon police official and her son appeared in Bronx court this week after prosecutors accused the pair of taking part in a gang-related shooting outside a courthouse that authorities say was carefully planned.

Jennifer Lackard, the former deputy commissioner of wellness for the Mount Vernon Police Department, is charged alongside her 20-year-old son, Chase Lackard, in connection with a June 29 shooting near the Bronx Hall of Justice. Both pleaded not guilty during their court appearances this week.

According to the Bronx District Attorney’s Office, Chase Lackard allegedly opened fire on rival gang members shortly after leaving a scheduled court appearance on an unrelated weapons case. Prosecutors allege Jennifer Lackard and her husband, James Lackard, drove him to and from the shooting, with Jennifer later taking the wheel as the family left the scene. No one was struck by the gunfire.

Authorities further allege that surveillance video, cellphone evidence and text messages show the shooting was coordinated in advance. Prosecutors claim Jennifer Lackard advised her son on the timing of the alleged attack before helping him leave the area. James Lackard, who is also charged in the indictment, has not yet been taken into custody, according to prosecutors.

Jennifer Lackard was terminated from her position with the Mount Vernon Police Department immediately following her arrest. City officials said the allegations are unrelated to her official duties but confirmed her employment ended effective immediately.

The charges against Jennifer and Chase Lackard include attempted murder, conspiracy, criminal possession of a weapon and reckless endangerment. Chase Lackard is being held without bail, while Jennifer Lackard was ordered held on $75,000 bail. If convicted, both face significant prison time. Their next court appearances are scheduled for later this year.