Patrick A. Russo, Undersheriff 4000 Main Street, Troy, NY 12180 518 270-5448 Visit the Official Rennselaer County Sheriff's website	Back

Sheriff Mahar was first elected Sheriff in 2003.  His career in law enforcement began when he joined the Troy Police Department in March of 1976, after completing 4 years in the United States Marine Corps. During his police department career, he served in and commanded all units within the Troy Police Department and moved up the ranks to Captain. He is a graduate of SUNY, Empire State College, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration, and is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy, 182nd Session. While with the Troy Police Department, he was selected to be the New York State representative for a one-year fellowship with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Washington, DC in 1992 and in 1999 he was selected by the FBI to serve an Executive Fellowship at FBI Headquarters, Safe Streets Unit. During his more than 27 years with the Troy Police Department, he received numerous commendations. Elected Sheriff in 2003, he has been active in programs of the National Sheriffs’ Association. He currently serves as 3rd Vice President of the New York State Sheriffs’ Association. He also either chairs or sits on numerous professional and civic committees. He enjoys aviation and has his private pilot’s license. Rensselaer County has a population of 165,000 and covers an area of 665 miles.