Retired NYPD Chief Joseph Michael Herbert, who spent 38 years policing New York City and helped stop the infamous “New York Zodiac Killer,” died at his home in Rockaway Beach on September 30 at age 68.
Herbert’s career began in 1981 when he joined the NYPD from Brooklyn at age 23. He rose quickly, becoming a detective after just five years and earning the Medal of Valor in 1985. In 1996 he helped arrest Heriberto Seda, the serial killer who murdered three New York citizens and wounded six others in Brooklyn and Queens—an operation that made national headlines.
Colleagues remember “Pork Chop” Herbert as a dedicated, sharp‑witted officer. Former homicide detective Louie Savarese said, “He was the best boss I ever worked for and the sharpest detective I ever met. He lived and breathed the job. The only thing he loved more than the NYPD was his wife, Barbara, and his daughter, Kristen.”
After 9/11, Herbert joined the Joint Terrorism Task Force and later served as deputy chief and commanding officer. The department’s former chief of detectives, Robert Boyce, praised his command skills: “Joe’s command of crime conditions and criminals was unrivaled in our department. His word at compstat was considered gospel.”
At retirement in 2017, Herbert left the force having earned a legacy of success and respect. A lifelong New York Rangers fan, he spent his later years in Rockaway Beach, enjoying time with his granddaughter and writing an autobiography. His obituary highlighted his calm presence, loyalty to friends, and deep integrity.
A wake is scheduled for Monday from 2–4 p.m. and 6–8 p.m. at the Denis S. O’Connor Funeral Home in Far Rockaway, followed by a Catholic funeral Mass at St. Francis De Sales Church and burial at Resurrection Cemetery on Staten Island. Family members ask that donations be made to the First Responder’s Children’s Foundation.
Source: New York Post
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