It is with deep regret and sadness that Superintendent Joseph A. D’Amico announces the passing of former Superintendent Thomas A. Constantine on Sunday following a brief illness.
Superintendent Constantine joined the New York State Police in 1962 as a uniform trooper. Over the next 34 years, he rose through all uniform and investigative positions, serving as Troop Commander of Troop G before moving to Division Headquarters where he served as Staff Inspector; Lieutenant Colonel/BCI; and Colonel/Field Commander overseeing all uniform and BCI operations.
In 1986, Superintendent Constantine was nominated by Governor Mario Cuomo to be the 10th Superintendent of the New York State Police. It was the first time in 30 years that a State Police member rose through the ranks and was appointed to lead the agency.
During his time as Superintendent, he created a State Police Forensic Investigation Support Services unit whose mission was to support and enhance the investigation of violent crimes; and dramatically increased the number of investigators in the State Police Narcotics Unit to combat a growing drug problem. Superintendent Constantine also established the Colonel Henry F. Williams Homicide Seminar, the first training of its kind to bring homicide investigators from around the world together to hear from leading medical, forensic, legal, and investigative experts. This annual training opportunity is held in high regard and continues to this day.
Superintendent Constantine retired from the New York State Police in 1994, and was appointed Administrator of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration by President Bill Clinton, a position he held until his retirement in 1999.
Superintendent Constantine also served as Oversight Commissioner for a major reform of provincial policing in Northern Ireland, and as a professor at UAlbany’s Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy.
The New York State Police thank Superintendent Constantine for his service to his country, his State, and his unwavering support of the Division during and after his time with the agency. His contributions to the law enforcement community were unmatched and his service will never be forgotten.
The thoughts and prayers of the men and women of the New York State Police are with Superintendent Constantine’s family, his wife Ruth, his six children and grandchildren.
