Sheriffs from across New York state are uniting in their push for politicians and Governor Andrew Cuomo to support and protect members of law enforcement.

"Law enforcement has a very difficult job. Most want to do their job right and go home safely to their families at the end of their shift," said Livingston County Sheriff Thomas Dougherty.

What You Need To Know


  • Sheriffs statewide are uniting to push for more support and protection for law enforcement

  • The sheriffs from Livingston and Wayne counties spoke to offer their support for the push

  • Across the state, sheriffs have presented nearly a dozen legislative proposals aimed at protecting members of law enforcement, as well as the public.

Much of the country has witnessed recent confrontations between police and the public. It has prompted conversation among sheriffs statewide who have presented nearly a dozen legislative proposals aimed at protecting members of law enforcement, as well as the public. Two of those proposals would increase the felony level for those who resist arrest and for those who fail to retreat or halt when ordered by a police officer.

“A deputy's split second reaction to a perceived threat may perhaps later be thought to be all wrong by those sitting in their armchairs, under no pressure, under no stress, but these deputies don’t always have the luxury of cool reflection before taking those actions," said Dougherty.

A half a dozen proposals addressed related crimes against officers such as assault, aggravated harassment, and stalking of officers. The proposals come at a time when police officers are under scrutiny in terms of their actions when dealing with the public and some are calling for police reform.

“We agree that we’re not perfect, but we also say the community needs protection. Our employees, our deputy sheriffs also need protections, and our corrections officers and our police and peace officers need protections too," said Wayne County Sheriff Barry Virts.

Sheriffs are also asking the state legislature to recognize work done by law enforcement by passing a $500,000 disability and death benefit and designating May 15 each year, as a state holiday to honor those officers who have died in the line of duty.