More than 75 recently promoted members of the Suffolk County Police Department were recognized during a ceremony in Brentwood, marking a significant milestone for one of the nation’s largest law enforcement agencies.
Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine and Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina presided over the ceremony, which included promotions ranging from sergeant to inspector. Among the highest-ranking promotees were Inspector Joseph Hauswirth, now commanding officer of the Seventh Precinct, and Inspector Markus Rivera, who will lead the Second Precinct.
The Suffolk County Police Department, which provides police services to five of Suffolk County’s ten towns: Babylon, Huntington, Islip, Smithtown and Brookhaven, is the second largest county police agency in the United States, with approximately 2,500 sworn officers.
The department also supports the county’s five eastern towns, which maintain their own forces, by providing specialized services and resources.
Formed in 1960, the SCPD unified 33 separate law enforcement agencies that previously operated independently across the county.
Prior to its creation, policing was handled by a mix of local constables, small town departments and the New York State Police, often with limited training and resources.
The transition to a centralized police force followed a 1958 referendum establishing a county executive form of government and was aimed at improving efficiency, professionalism and coordination.
At its inception, the department had just 619 sworn officers. Today, it has grown into a modern, full-service agency with specialized bureaus including detectives, communications, identification and central records, as well as its own police academy.
Officials said the promotions reflect both the department’s continued growth and its commitment to leadership development, ensuring that SCPD remains equipped to serve and protect Suffolk County’s diverse and expanding communities.