SARATOGA COUNTY, N.Y. — An official walkout ceremony was held for Sheriff Michael Zurlo on December 23, 2023, marking the end of his 48-year career in law enforcement, with the last 12 years spent as the sheriff of Saratoga County. The event took place at the Paul E. Lent Public Safety Facility in Ballston Spa, where colleagues, family, and community members gathered to honor his long-standing service.
Throughout his career, Zurlo emphasized the importance of the relationships he built, both with his colleagues and the community he served. In his remarks, he expressed gratitude for the people he worked alongside and the residents of Saratoga County. “I love the passion. I love the people I work with. I love the residents of Saratoga County,” he stated, reflecting on his journey from starting his career in Mechanicville to leading the sheriff’s office.
The ceremony drew law enforcement officials from local, state, and federal agencies, as well as current and former elected officials. Despite the inclement weather, the turnout demonstrated the respect and admiration Zurlo garnered over the years. “It’s just nice that we connected with a lot of people in this job,” he remarked, acknowledging the large crowd.
A poignant moment came when Zurlo’s son, Andrew Zurlo, traveled from North Carolina to deliver a heartfelt tribute. He praised his father for exemplifying integrity and dedication, recounting personal anecdotes that highlighted the sacrifices made throughout his career. “Watching you over the years showed me what true integrity looks like,” Andrew said, illustrating the impact of his father’s commitment to both family and community.
Zurlo expressed deep appreciation for his family, acknowledging the personal sacrifices they endured during his tenure. “I’ve missed Christmases… I had to leave [during] present-opening,” he reflected, underscoring the challenges faced by law enforcement professionals and their families.
During the ceremony, several honors were presented to Zurlo, including the Honorable Discharge Award, recognizing his distinguished service. Jeff Brown, the Undersheriff and Sheriff-elect, remarked that Zurlo represented the “epitome of what a county sheriff should be,” further solidifying his legacy within the department.
As he addressed the audience for the final time as sheriff, Zurlo expressed his emotional farewell. “Today marks the end of an incredible 12-year journey as the Sheriff of Saratoga County,” he stated. He conveyed his confidence in leaving the office in the capable hands of Brown, emphasizing his pride in the work accomplished during his leadership.
Looking ahead, Zurlo expressed excitement about spending more time with family, especially his seven-month-old granddaughter, Lily. He also mentioned plans for travel with his wife, reflecting on the new chapter of his life. “I can tell [the residents] I did my job 150%. I worked hard… to give them the best protection that they can have,” he affirmed, reinforcing his commitment to the department and the community.
The Saratogian plans to publish a comprehensive reflection on Zurlo’s career on December 24, 2023, offering insights into his motivations and experiences as sheriff. The ceremony not only celebrated his career but also highlighted the profound connections forged over nearly five decades of service to the Saratoga County community.
