NYS Corrections Officer Ken Smith from Mount Vernon, who never made it to Rikers Island, where he worked for 20 years, on Wednesday, has been found unharmed in the Bronx.

“The Mayor’s office is grateful that Officer Ken Smith was found,” Maria Donovan tells BW on behalf of Mayor Richard W. Thomas. “Our Police Department worked with several agencies including the New York Police Department and Alonzo West, President of the Westchester County Correction Officers’ Benevolent Association, to ensure collaboration and communication leading to Smith’s safe return.”

Officer Smith, 53-year-old father of two was feeling ill for several days, but opted to return to work at Rikers Island, has been located in Harlem and was transported to a local hospital for evaluation.

“On behalf of the entire Correction community, I offer our heartfelt thanks to the individuals and agencies that helped locate our officer,” Department of Corrections Commissioner Joseph Pointe said in a statement.

Foul play is not suspected, according to police, which was a concern because he was carrying a firearm at the time of his disappearance.

Monday, December 12th will mark Officer Smith’s 20-year anniversary with the New York City Department of Corrections.

Stay tuned to Black Westchester Magazine for more on this developing story.