Queens Officer Promoted to Sergeant, Continuing Family Legacy

A police officer from Queens recently achieved a significant milestone by being promoted to the rank of Sergeant. Mustafa H. Young becomes the fourth member of his family to hold this honor.

His promotion was part of a larger ceremony where he and 75 other officers were recognized at One Police Plaza. Young’s family, including his parents and sisters—all part of law enforcement—were in attendance.

“I want to say I’m excited, but I’ve been waiting for this for a while,” Young mentioned, reflecting on his family’s legacy. “It’s obviously part of my family history, and I’m trying to carry that on.” He expressed enthusiasm for this new chapter in his career, noting he is following in the footsteps of those who came before him.

In this new position, Young joins his father, who is a Sergeant in the Patrol Borough of Queens South.

His sister, Jameela Hall, and her husband are also in the police force, further emphasizing the family’s commitment to serving in law enforcement. Young’s promotion followed his success in the challenging Sergeant Test, marking a proud moment in his career, though he admits it does not quite eclipse the day he officially joined the Force.

At 35, Young carries his mother Harriet’s shield number, 25873—a number she had set aside when she retired from her NYPD duties as he started his career.

Vernon Young, his father, is also a Sergeant and will soon celebrate his 29th year with the NYPD. The couple never anticipated their three children would also pursue this heroic path.

“The discipline and commitment to fighting for what’s right definitely motivated me to join law enforcement,” Young reflected on his decision to become an officer.

He added that being involved in NYPD football has greatly influenced his career, providing a solid support network.

Vernon Young shared his pride in his son’s accomplishments. “I’m incredibly proud and it’s wonderful to see him continue the family legacy,” he said, emphasizing the importance of this journey.

Young’s recent promotion follows closely on the heels of his sister’s advancement to Sergeant just four months earlier.

Interestingly, another sister, Taqiyya Young, stands out as the only family member not in uniform, holding a position as a documentary captain instead. “It’s thrilling to see how far we’ve come,” she remarked about the family’s collective achievements.