Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman swore in 26 citizens as new “special deputies” who will be activated to assist the county during emergencies, such as a terrorist attack or a natural disaster.
The provisional special deputies — many of them retired police officers, and military and emergency responders — are licensed to carry guns and receive firearms training.
“I want to thank you for stepping up to the plate and being part of our safety and security in Nassau County,” Blakeman said at the graduation ceremony Monday night in Mineola.
“The number one job of a public official is public safety, public health, and public welfare.”
Critics have slammed the program, which falls under the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office, as Blakeman’s private militia.
But he brushed off the brickbats, saying the special deputies will supplement — not supplant — police and emergency responders, such as by providing coverage at power plants, hospitals, and faith-based institutions.
Their activation will help police and emergency responders do their jobs, the county executive said.
“We’re not scrambling if there is an emergency,” said Blakeman.
The deputies don’t get paid unless they’re activated.
“I hope and pray I never have to activate you,” he told the deputies.
