The Republican leader of a suburb bordering New York City, Bruce Blakeman, is causing controversy by proposing a plan to deputize private citizens for emergency situations. Blakeman believes that Albany and Washington, D.C. are more interested in giving money to unvetted migrants than protecting communities. The plan involves trained citizens, with experience in law enforcement and the military, who would be on reserve for serious emergencies. However, lawmakers opposing the plan believe it resembles a “militia,” drawing comparisons to Nazi “brownshirts.” Critics are concerned that provisional deputies could be used to suppress protests.
Blakeman defended his proposal, emphasizing that the provisional deputies would only be called in for devastating emergencies, such as natural disasters or violent outbreaks. They would not be on patrol but stationed to protect infrastructure. The individuals selected for the program must hold a pistol license, submit to background checks, and have a clean mental health history. Provisional deputies would be subject to random drug testing, must be fit for duty, and primarily consist of retired law enforcement and military veterans. Blakeman maintains that this extreme measure is necessary to be prepared for any potential emergency.
Critics of the plan liken the provisional deputies to a paramilitary organization, expressing concerns about potential vigilantism and the lack of proper training for civilians in law enforcement roles. Some Democratic lawmakers have compared the proposal to Nazi “Brownshirts” and expressed anxiety over the implications of such a program. County executive Blakeman stresses that the candidates for provisional deputies are all “patriots” with extensive experience in law enforcement or the military.
Blakeman emphasizes the need for this program to protect human life and property during emergencies, such as natural disasters or violent riots. He has enlisted the help of Sheriff Anthony LaRocco to oversee the provisional deputy program, which would only be activated in dire circumstances. The proposal aims to provide additional support when county police are overwhelmed by a crisis. Blakeman has already sworn in 200 new uniformed county police officers and allocated more funding for the department as part of his efforts to combat what he perceives as ineffective policies from the state capital.
Despite assurances from Blakeman about the stringent qualifications and intentions of the provisional deputy program, critics continue to raise concerns about the use of civilians in emergency response situations. Some argue that the program could lead to vigilante behavior or unnecessary escalation during protests. Blakeman has faced backlash from Democratic lawmakers and community members, who view the proposal as unnecessary and potentially dangerous.
Blakeman’s plan to deputize private citizens for emergencies in Nassau County has stirred controversy and sparked debate about the role of civilians in law enforcement situations. While the proposal aims to enhance emergency response during devastating scenarios, critics remain skeptical of the potential implications and question the necessity of such a program. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the provisional deputy program will be implemented and whether it will receive the support of the community and lawmakers.
