FBI Veteran Named to NYRA Security Position

The New York Racing Association announced Dec. 11 that FBI veteran George C. Venizelos will become the organization's vice president of security, effective Jan. 26.

Venizelos, 54, currently serves as the assistant director in charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation's New York Division, the largest of the bureau's 56 field offices. With more than 27 years in law enforcement, Venizelos oversees all FBI operations and personnel within the five boroughs of New York City and eight counties in New York State, as well as those assigned to La Guardia and John F. Kennedy International airports, the NYRA release said.

"In his new role, Venizelos will be responsible for commanding, directing, and coordinating NYRA's uniformed and investigative security force in all activities related to the protection, conservation, and security of company assets, employees, guests, and others," the release said.

Venizelos will also oversee cybercrime prevention as well as security planning, coordination, and execution for special events.

"The addition of George Venizelos further reflects the New York Racing Association's continued success in attracting the finest talent to our management team," NYRA chief executive officer Christopher Kay said. "George is deeply respected within the highest, most influential levels of the law enforcement community, and his knowledge, experience and leadership skills are exceptional."

Prior to his appointment to lead the FBI's New York division by Director Robert S. Mueller III in October 2012, Venizelos had served as special agent in charge of the Philadelphia division. He has held various executive-level positions throughout his career, including roles as an inspector at FBI headquarters and special agent in charge of the administrative division in New York.

In 2003, he served as assistant special agent in charge of the counterterrorism division in New York, managing the domestic terrorism program with specific oversight and responsibility for New York City and the surrounding areas.

"I would like to thank the men and women of the bureau for the opportunity to serve this great nation. This has been an incredible journey, and I'm deeply grateful for their collaboration, support, and friendship. Together we made a difference," Venizelos said.

Before joining the FBI, Venizelos worked as an accountant at KPMG Peat Marwick. He is a graduate of Fordham University.