Two of Suffolk County’s largest law enforcement agencies marked Martin Luther King Jr. Day by joining community members in Riverhead to reflect on Dr. King’s legacy of service, unity and compassion.
Officials from both the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office and the Suffolk County Police Department attended the 41st annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Breakfast, hosted by the First Baptist Church of Riverhead. The event was held at the Hyatt Regency Long Island in Hauppauge.
Sheriff Errol Toulon Jr. attended the breakfast alongside Undersheriff William Becker and Deputy Undersheriffs James Heavey and William Taylor, as well as members of the Sheriff’s Office. During the program, Toulon spoke about the agency’s ongoing commitment to public service and community engagement.
In his remarks, Toulon reflected on one of Dr. King’s most well-known quotes: “Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” He said the words continue to resonate today, underscoring the importance of compassion, unity and understanding in building stronger communities. Toulon emphasized that the Sheriff’s Office strives to uphold those principles in its daily work with residents across Suffolk County.
Members of the Suffolk County Police Department also took part in the annual breakfast. Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina attended with Deputy Commissioners Belinda Groneman and Thomas Galati, joining community members in honoring Dr. King’s enduring influence and celebrating individuals who continue to make a positive difference.
The morning included reflections on Dr. King’s leadership, calls for continued service, and recognition of community members who embody his ideals.
Both agencies said they were proud to stand alongside residents, faith leaders and local organizations in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, describing the breakfast as a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the past while recommitting to service, fairness and community partnership in the year ahead.