With 30 years of law enforcement experience, I’ve learned that succeeding as Sheriff requires putting politics aside and getting the job done—that’s why I’ve earned the endorsement of the Suffolk County Law Enforcement Coalition.

Those 30 years of experience mean I’ve served long enough to see what works and what doesn’t. I spent 25 years working on Rikers Island in roles ranging from correction officer to deputy commissioner. I specialized in training thousands of officers in the latest gang prevention techniques. As your Sheriff, I have, and will continue to, crack down on violent gangs, like MS-13, to keep gang members behind bars and off our streets.

But we can’t stop there. To make Suffolk safer, I’ve pushed to invest in new ways to prevent young people from joining gangs in the first place. We implemented more mentoring and educational programs in Suffolk’s jails, and pushed for more tutoring and after-school programs for at-risk youth. At the same time, my office has invested more in community-based, anti-crime programs, and better officer training on how to de-escalate situations before they become violent.

Safety and reform must go hand-in-hand because reckless reform makes us more vulnerable. I strongly oppose defunding the police, and I oppose the Albany bail legislation that releases potential criminals back onto our streets. Suffolk is safer when our officers have the backing and the resources they need to do their jobs.

As a lifelong law enforcement professional, I’m proud to be endorsed by every law enforcement organization in Suffolk County. But I’m even prouder of the trust that Suffolk residents place in me each day to keep them safe. I am deeply honored to serve you, and I hope to earn your vote once again on November 2.