Mount Vernon Deputy Police Commissioner Jennifer Lackard was fired and charged after prosecutors alleged she drove the getaway car for her 20-year-old son following a gang-related shooting near Bronx Criminal Court. The case matters because it involves a senior police official accused of helping a suspect evade authorities, raising questions about public trust and the circumstances of her appointment.

The report says Lackard had connections to Mount Vernon’s mayor’s office when she obtained her leadership role, including reportedly being a sorority sister of the mayor. Her son is accused in connection with the shooting, while Lackard faces allegations that she assisted his escape; the charges remain allegations to be tested in court.