Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Buffalo Mayor Chris Scanlon has officially nominated Al Wright for Buffalo Police Commissioner, and submitted his appointment to the Buffalo Common Council for approval.
Scanlon named Wright Acting Buffalo Police Commissioner on Jan. 13, 2025 after then Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia resigned from his position.
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Wright began his career with the Buffalo Police Department in 1988. Over his 37-year tenure, he has served in various leadership roles, including Chief of Detectives and First Deputy Police Commissioner of Operations. Wright’s commitment to public safety, operational excellence, and community engagement has been a cornerstone of his career and will guide his leadership of the department.
"My administration, under leadership of the Buffalo Police Department and Commissioner Wright, is putting a renewed focus on addressing nuisance and quality-of-life crimes that impact neighborhoods, small businesses and the everyday lives of city residents," said Mayor Scanlon in a statement on Friday. "Al Wright has dedicated nearly four decades to protecting and serving the people of Buffalo. As the first Community Police Officer, his experience, leadership, and deep commitment to our community make him the ideal person to lead the Buffalo Police Department."
In addition to Wright’s appointment, Wright has selected Buffalo Police Inspector Patrick Overdorf as Deputy Commissioner of the Buffalo Police Department.
Overdorf, who joined the Buffalo Police Department in 2012, has served as a police officer, detective, police lieutenant, police captain, and most recently, Buffalo Police Inspector. His extensive experience and dedication to the department position him well for this leadership role.
"Patrick Overdorf’s extensive background and leadership skills will help strengthen our department’s mission to ensure public safety and build trust with our residents. I look forward to working with the Common Council to confirm these appointments and continue moving our city forward," added Mayor Scanlon.
The Buffalo mayor anticipates a quick confirmation process from the Common Council.