As the first Guyanese-Muslim Chief of the New York Police Department (NYPD) and commanding officer of the Police Academy, Amir Yakatally embodies the American dream. His rise through the ranks is a testament to his dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to serving his community.
Chief Yakatally, a first-generation American Guyanese, was born and raised in Brooklyn to immigrant parents from a small rural area, No. 3 village, West Bank Berbice. Like many immigrant families, his parents worked to ensure he had the best quality of life, inspiring him to join the NYPD. His hard work and discipline propelled him up the ranks within the department, and he advanced to training.