Passing of Longest Serving Ossining Chief of Police, Joseph Burton

The OFD expresses its sincere condolences to the Burton Family & the OPD on the passing of retired Chief of Police, Joseph Burton. Chief Burton was Ossining’s 13 Chief, the longest serving Police Chief serving in that capacity for 24 years out of his 49 years in law enforcement. He was pivotal in establishing multiple initiatives to the Department, specifically a massive proponent of bringing the DARE program to our community.

He was also a community oriented supporter outside of the uniform, volunteering as an Assistant Football Coach for OHS for many years as well supporter of many other youth initiatives such as the Police Athletic League & Community Policing. Chief Burton also served as a Past President of the Ossining Historical Society and served our Country in the US Army.

His name & legacy remains ingrained in our community as the portion of Spring St. that adorns his name “Chief Burton Way” stands as a continuous reminder of his dedication and service to Ossining.

Statement via the Ossining Police Department Social Media Outlets:
It is with profound sadness and deep regret that the Ossining Police Department announces the passing of Chief Joseph Burton Jr. (retired), the longest-serving Chief of Police in the history of the Ossining Police Department, following a lifetime of dedicated service to his community.

Chief Burton began his police career in 1967. Over the decades, he rose steadily through the ranks, earning the respect of fellow officers and residents alike through his steady leadership, deep commitment to public safety, and strong connection to the Ossining community.

Chief Burton served as Chief of Police for a remarkable 24 years, a tenure marked not only by longevity, but by meaningful growth and modernization within the department. Under his leadership, the Ossining Police Department expanded its capabilities with the addition of specialized units, including SWAT, motorcycle and bicycle patrols, and youth-focused initiatives. He was a strong supporter of community policing long before it became widely practiced, helping bring programs like D.A.R.E. into local schools and supporting youth engagement through efforts such as the Police Athletic League.

Chief Burton also oversaw significant developments in department infrastructure, including the transition to the Birdsall-Fagan Police and Court Facility, which remains in use today, helping position the department for the future while maintaining its strong foundation in community service.

After an incredible 49 years in law enforcement, Chief Burton retired on December 31, 2015. In recognition of his extraordinary service and lasting impact, the Village of Ossining honored him by designating a street as “Chief Burton Way.”

Chief Burton is remembered as a dedicated public servant, a steady and respected leader, and a proud member of the Ossining community, where he also lived and volunteered as an assistant football coach for the local high school team. His legacy lives on in the department he helped shape and in the countless lives he touched throughout his career.

Chief Burton is survived by his wife, Gabrielle, and his daughter, Kristine.

The Ossining Police Department mourns his passing and will carry forward his legacy of service, leadership, and commitment to the profession. Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later time.