Acting Supreme Court Justice John Iliou and Edward Gialella, program director for Suffolk County’s Problem-Solving Courts, led the session, focusing on courtroom procedures and the range of specialized court parts available within the county.
Their presentation aimed to help future officers better understand how law enforcement and the courts intersect in the criminal justice process.
The speakers highlighted Suffolk County’s problem-solving courts, including Drug Court and the Integrated Domestic Violence Court, where Iliou presides.
These courts are designed to address underlying issues such as substance abuse and domestic conflict, with the goal of reducing repeat offenses and enhancing public safety.
According to Iliou, educating cadets about the full scope of the justice system is essential.
“It is critically important that those entering law enforcement understand not only the arrest process, but what follows in the courtroom,” he said after the lecture.
“Our goal is to provide these future officers with a clearer picture of how the justice system functions as a whole.
”The visit marked the third consecutive year that Iliou and Gialella have spoken to academy recruits, reflecting an ongoing partnership between the courts and the Suffolk County Police Department.
Cadets and instructors responded positively to the presentation, which officials said remains an important part of academy training as they prepare to serve and protect residents across Suffolk County.
The program is intended to strengthen collaboration between institutions and ensure that new officers enter the field with a broader understanding of legal processes, reinforcing coordinated efforts to promote accountability and long-term community safety across the region overall.