Deputy Police Commissioner Belinda Alvarez-Groneman was honored this week for her extraordinary lifetime of service, leadership, and dedication to public safety and community empowerment.
The recognition came during a special Women of Distinction Breakfast hosted by State Assemblyman Joe DeStefano, who praised Alvarez-Groneman as a role model whose work has strengthened the bond between law enforcement and the community. He commended her as “a trailblazer who has opened doors for others and inspired generations to serve with integrity and compassion.”
Alvarez-Groneman began her career with the Suffolk County Police Department in 1981 as a community service aide and became a sworn officer in 1985. Over the years, she earned recognition and numerous commendations for exemplary police work and became widely respected for her professionalism, leadership, and compassion in the line of duty.
In 1997, she made history as the first Hispanic woman to serve on the police commissioner’s staff as special assistant, where she focused on improving police-community relations and revitalized the 3rd Precinct Explorer Program, helping local youth build confidence, discipline, and leadership skills.
After retiring as a detective, Alvarez-Groneman continued her service in Congressman Lee Zeldin’s district office, assisting constituents with issues including immigration, public safety, and law enforcement support. Her dedication extended well beyond her professional roles and into nearly every facet of community life.
She organized major events such as the Suffolk County Executive’s Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration, Adelante’s Puerto Rican/Hispanic Day Parade, and the Adopt-a-Family at Christmas program, enriching the lives of countless Suffolk County families.
Alvarez-Groneman’s leadership also includes service on numerous boards and advisory councils, including the Suffolk County Executive’s Advisory Board, Congressman Rick Lazio’s Hispanic Advisory Board, the Suffolk County Police Hispanic Society, Pronto of Long Island, the Suffolk County Community College Foundation Board, and the Brentwood-Islandia Lions Club.