James Franzo: Keeping BronxCare Safe and Secure

James Franzo, BronxCare’s new Director of Security, began his more than 30-year career in the New York City Police Department (NYPD) at the 42nd Precinct in the Bronx. As a result, he is especially familiar with BronxCare and the community.

During the years that followed, Mr. Franzo, initially assigned in the Bronx, steadily advanced in the NYPD to positions of Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Captain for the Precinct, receiving numerous commendations for his crime solving abilities and heroic actions. He was subsequently promoted to Deputy Inspector for Lower Manhattan including its Housing Developments. Mr. Franzo then returned to the Bronx as a Full Inspector, a position he held prior to his recent retirement from the NYPD.

A situation he vividly remembers involved a family in the community having all the gifts under their Christmas tree stolen. He and his staff then went to purchase gifts themselves to give that family a meaningful holiday experience. It is this type of good will and compassion for people in distress that Mr. Franzo intends to apply at BronxCare.

In terms of his educational background, Mr. Franzo attended SUNY Empire State College. In fact, he attended college during the day and worked the evening shift.

Mr. Franzo intends to utilize his police experience and understanding of the Bronx Community to the benefit of the BronxCare Health System. His primary goal is to continually maintain a safe environment for patients, visitors, and staff, which he believes will be accomplished. “Although it is always difficult to anticipate or control situations that are, at times, almost uncontrollable, I am confident that our security team can meet the challenge,” stated Mr. Franzo.

BronxCare’s security team now has 80 staff members working with Mr. Franzo, including Sergeants and Security Offcers, as well as Lieutenant/Operations Manager Steven Rocca, Assistant Director Allan Williams, and Administrative Assistant Daisy Valentin. Security staff are assigned to BronxCare’s two main campuses, in addition to all outreach locations.

As the Security Department moves forward, Mr. Franzo plans to expand training programs for the staff, similar to those in place at the NYPD, with the aim of maximizing safety and communication skills. In addition, maintaining strong relationships with the NYPD and continuing staff recruitment are also among Mr. Franzo’s priorities which he anticipates will be fulfilled.

“It is important to find the right people for the right posts, and that’s exactly what we will be doing,” stated Mr. Franzo.