Chief Read holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from SUNY Cortland and received his Master's Degree in the Administration of Justice and Security from the University of Phoenix in 2013. In 2009 he completed a course of instruction at the FBI's National Academy in Quantico, VA, as a member of the 236 class. He joined the Shelter Island Town Police Department in 1987 as a Police Officer. Chief Read was promoted to sergeant in 1996 and to Chief of Police in 1998. Under his leadership, the police department has made numerous technological advancements including a digital records management system, which included adding computer terminals in patrol cars to document incident reports and access vital information. He led the department in an in-depth analysis of the rules, regulations, and operational practices that culminated in achieving New York State accreditation in 2009. Chief Read is also the Town's Emergency Management Coordinator and the Department's Accreditation Program Manager.