NOPD Eighth District Commander Nicholas Gernon was honored by the New Orleans City Council at its meeting on Thursday, November 29, 2018.

Gernon was honored for his 16 years with NOPD, most recently the leader in the Eighth District, which includes the French Quarter, a part of the city that sees millions of visitors every year.

The proclamation specifically cited Gernon’s recent recognition by Gambit magazine as one of the Gambit 40 under 40, his “dedication to keeping our communities safe,” and his efforts related to the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion program, which offers solutions other than incarceration for non-violent offenders looking to treat and manage substance abuse issues.

NOPD Superintendent Michael Harrison praised Gernon and the successes his team in the Eighth District have achieved in keeping a vital part of the city’s economy as safe as possible.

“We at NOPD are proud of the work that Commander Gernon and his team in the Eighth District have been doing to keep the busiest part of our city safe and secure,” Harrison said. “This recognition from our city leaders is a fitting tribute to the results that we have seen over the past few years under Commander Gernon’s leadership.”

District C Councilmember Kristin Giselson Palmer, who sponsored the proclamation, called Gernon the definition of a leader.

“He is always willing to lend a helping hand and volunteers often to help clean up neighborhoods in the Eighth District,” Palmer said. “I’ve seen firsthand, on numerous occasions, how accessible and familiar he is with the citizens he serves, and I was honored to recognize his hard work and dedication to improving our city.”

The full text of the proclamation can be read below:

Whereas, the City of New Orleans is renowned for its food, festivals, famous citizens and foreign visitors; and

Whereas, the City Council takes great pride in paying tribute to events and activities; now, therefore

BE IT PROCLAIMED BY THE CITY OF NEW ORLEANS that the Council recognizes:

COMMANDER Nicholas L. Gernon

We want to recognize you for your outstanding 16 years of service and as a commander for the New Orleans Police Department. Your innate desire for community progression, being recognized as a Gambit 40 under 40 recipient, and your dedication to keeping our communities safe. Your efforts on the Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion program. These milestones have not gone unnoticed. We wish you the best and continued exemplary success.

In the name of and by the authority vested in the Council of the City of New Orleans.