Law Enforcement Appreciation Day is observed annually on Jan. 9 to honor and show support for the men and women serving in law enforcement. Today, Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown) extended his appreciation to police officers, deputies, state troopers, federal agents and other law enforcement professionals while emphasizing the urgent need for legislative action to protect those who protect us.
Since 2017, more than 40 individuals convicted of killing police officers have been released on parole in New York state. Since being elected to the New York State Assembly in 2022, Assemblyman Slater has been a vocal advocate for strengthening law enforcement and reforming flawed criminal justice policies. In his first term, he introduced the No Parole for Cop Killers Act (A.5747A, 2024), which seeks to ensure individuals convicted of killing police officers remain behind bars permanently.
“If you take the life of a police officer, you should face a lifetime behind bars—no exceptions,” Slater said. “Far too often, we’ve witnessed violent crimes targeting on-duty police officers in our state. Meanwhile, the Parole Board has repeatedly shown it cannot be trusted to prioritize the safety of our first responders—or that of all New Yorkers. Keeping our streets and neighborhoods safe starts with making sure our police are safe too.”
In addition to the No Parole for Cop Killers Act, Slater will introduce several key measures to support law enforcement during this legislative session:
restoring confidentiality protections for the personnel records of police officers, firefighters, correction officers and probation officers;
creating a Class D felony for inciting violence against police officers;
and establishing the crime of making terroristic threats against police officers.
“Addressing the abhorrent trend of violence towards our police requires decisive action. By appropriately classifying these offenses, we can deliver justice and provide a strong deterrent.”
“From the local departments here in the 94th Assembly District to law enforcement agencies across New York state, my sincere thanks go out to you for your tireless efforts to keep our families safe. Your service and sacrifice are deeply appreciated today and every day. During my time in Albany this year, I will continue to fight for stronger protections for our law enforcement officers, restore sanity to our failing criminal justice system and for the safety and well-being of all New Yorkers,” Slater concluded.
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