After more than four decades in law enforcement and seven years as Executive Director of the 100 Club of Buffalo, John Cleary Jr. is stepping down from his role. His career has been defined by integrity, compassion, and a steadfast dedication to serving first responders and the Western New York community.
A Distinguished Law Enforcement Career
John’s path into law enforcement began unexpectedly. “As crazy as it sounds, I never aspired to be a police officer,” he recalled. After performing well on the civil service exam, he soon found himself at the New York State Police Academy in Albany in 1974.
He began as a road Trooper in Putnam County before returning to Western New York. By 1985, John had been promoted to Uniform Sergeant in Niagara County, and the following year he joined the Narcotics Unit, investigating major drug cases across the eight-county region. Known for his diligence, knowledge, and exceptional police ability, he quickly became the “go-to” investigator in the State Police Narco Unit.
In 1996, John retired from the State Police and joined the Erie County District Attorney’s Office as an Investigator under DA Kevin Dillon. His strong work ethic and collaboration with local police departments made him an invaluable member of the team. In 2006, he was promoted to Chief Investigator, supervising the Investigative Unit and leading by example until his retirement from the DA’s office in 2014.
Over his career, John witnessed moments of both triumph and tragedy. He fondly remembers being stationed at the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, working the legendary USA vs. Russia hockey game, even managing to sneak a group of fellow Buffalonians into the arena. But he also recalls the sobering reality of countless tragic motor vehicle accidents and helping civilians through heartbreaking moments. “They say that in 20 years of law enforcement you see more than most people see in a lifetime,” he reflected.
Guided by integrity, ethics, flexibility, and the principle of leading by example, John built a reputation as a leader who could be trusted in even the most difficult circumstances.
Leading the 100 Club of Buffalo
In 2018, John embraced a new chapter of service as Executive Director of the 100 Club of Buffalo, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting law enforcement, fire, and emergency services. His introduction to the organization was serendipitous. While helping with a golf tournament, he was asked to step into the leadership role.
Over the past seven years, John worked tirelessly to grow the organization’s reach and impact. His leadership brought renewed energy to events like the annual Golf Tournament and Hero Awards Dinner, which became opportunities not only to raise funds but also to build bonds within the first responder community.
Among his proudest accomplishments was supporting families of fallen first responders and securing critical resources for local agencies. Under his leadership, the 100 Club funded specialized soap for the Buffalo Fire Department to reduce cancer-causing toxin exposure, supported the Buffalo Police Department’s mental health program, and purchased the “Aqua Eye” sonar device for the Underwater Recovery Team to aid in water rescues.
“The events of the 100 Club bring first responders together to connect and discuss challenges that departments face,” John explained. “First responders look forward to our events, where we honor individuals for heroic rescues and remind them that they are never alone.”
Recognition and Legacy
In 2024, John was honored with the Det./Sgt. Joseph C. Nigrelli Police Service Award, presented by the PBA and the Nigrelli family. The recognition held deep personal meaning. John had known Nigrelli since his teenage years, when they shared a daily bus ride in Buffalo. Their lifelong friendship, and John’s close connection to Nigrelli’s three sons, made the award especially significant.
Looking back, John considers his promotions to Sergeant, Investigator, and later Chief Investigator among his proudest milestones, each one a testament to the belief that hard work pays off.
His impact on the 100 Club of Buffalo has not gone unnoticed. Board Member Bill Fierle shared, “John is leaving the 100 Club a better organization than he found it. We are incredibly thankful for his dedication, leadership, and the countless hours he has given to strengthen our mission and support first responders across Western New York.”
As he retires from the 100 Club, John hopes his legacy will be one of hard work, organization, and attention to detail. “Running a golf tournament or Hero Awards Dinner involves many moving parts, and it’s rewarding to see the finished product come together smoothly,” he said. His advice to his successor is simple yet powerful: “Be detail-oriented and empathetic to people’s needs.”
A Lasting Message of Gratitude
Though stepping down, John plans to remain involved with the 100 Club and continue supporting first responder events and initiatives. Above all, he wants to express his appreciation for the colleagues and community members who have supported him along the way.
“I want to thank everyone who supported me during my law enforcement career as well as through my work with the 100 Club of Buffalo. It’s a great group of people, and the bond among first responders is truly amazing. I also want to thank the Western New York community for supporting our first responders, and I hope that continues for years to come. We are here to help in your time of need.”
