Statement on the Shooting of Suffolk County Police Officer Collins

“Suffolk County Police Officer Mark Collins was brutally shot last night during a routine traffic stop in Huntington Station.  As a 12 year veteran of the force and the Suffolk County Police officer of the year in 2009, his bravery and dedication is well known and unquestioned.  Our prayers are with his wife and family. Thankfully Officer Collins' doctors are confident of a full recovery.  This heinous crime reminds us how lucky we are to have the finest law enforcement officers protecting us 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.  The coward who allegedly pulled the trigger has been arrested and should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said Senator Carl L. Marcellino (R-Syosset).