The Summer Training Conference for Sheriffs was a great success thanks to our hosts, Saratoga County Sheriff Mike Zurlo and his wife Jane, and to all the Sheriffs from around the state who participated.

NYS Comptroller Tom DiNapoli addressed the group, saying: “Lately, we’ve seen all too clearly the daily risks taken, and the sacrifices made, by members of law enforcement. I am honored to be able to personally thank you and the women and men of your offices for doing their jobs day in and day out with commitment and courage.”

A joint press conference between NYSSA and Fight Crime: Invest in Kids provided great exposure to many Sheriffs advocating for funding in next year’s state budget for programs that send trained professionals into at-risk homes, including Putnam County Sheriff Donald Smith, who was presented with the Fight Crime: Invest in Kids program’s annual Champion for Children Award.

Albany County Sheriff Craig Apple discussed The IROC Program—Inmates Rebuilding Our Communities. And Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office Director of Emergency Communications Steve Gordon gave a presentation on Saratoga’s experience building out a multi-county, multi-agency PSAP, highlighting advantages, issues, and considerations for the benefit of agencies contemplating similar projects.

The National Sheriffs’ Association was well represented, with NSA Vice President Sheriff John Layton, NSA Director of Government Affairs, Breanna Bock-Nielson and NSA Counsel Richard Weintraub, Esq. participating.

New York State Association of Counties Executive Director Steve Acquario addressed the group. Updates from state agencies included: DCJS Executive Deputy Commissioner Michael Green; NYS Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner John Melville and Office of Counter Terrorism Director Michael Cerretto,Governor’s Deputy Secretary for Public Safety, Rachel Small, NYS Commission of Correction Chairman Thomas Beilein, and Commissioner, Thomas Loughren

As always, those Sheriffs unable to attend were missed. The exchange of ideas and experiences among Sheriffs is the main benefit of our conferences.  When any Sheriff does not attend it is a loss for all.  We hope to see you ALL next year!!