The Vice-Chair of the Westchester County Board of Legislators Lyndon Williams (D-Mount Vernon) has introduced legislation calling for Westchester County to create a permament memorial in honor of slain Mount Vernon Police officer, Christopher Ridley.

The memorial would be erected in front of the Westchester County Office Building at 85 Court Street where officer Ridley was gunned down. 

Ridley was killed January 25, 2008 when, while out of uniform, he intervened in an assault- in- progress on the street. He was later shot and killed by police who were called to the scene of the crime and apparently unaware that he was a police officer. 

Said Williams, "Three years since the death of Officer Christopher Ridley, it is only fitting and proper that a permanent structure should be erected to honor this courageous young man and that the county not let the sacrifice and memory of Officer Ridley be forgotten."

Ridley's father, Stan Ridley thanked Legislator Williams, saying, "My son's life ended at that plaza doing what he stood for and what he died for--caring for other people."

In 2009, in honor of Ridley's heroic efforts, the Westchester County Board of Legislators approved legislation designating the place where the tragic incident occurred, "Christopher Ridley Plaza."

At the time, then-County Executive Andy Spano had a temporary wooden plaque placed on the Plaza signifying the dedication. The wooden plaque was intended to be temporary until a suitable permanent symbol could be installed.