New Deputy Police Commissioner Comes to Suffolk with 39 Years of Experience in the NYPD
Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine and Suffolk County Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina announced on October 9 a commitment of enhanced initiatives to oversee counterterrorism efforts throughout the region. The Department appointed Thomas Galati as Deputy Commissioner. Romaine and Catalina said Galati brings a new level of expertise to the department’s efforts in safeguarding the county from evolving security threats.
“Suffolk County is home to 1.5 million residents and is only 50 miles from the most robust city in the world. With our proximity to New York City and with millions of tourists visiting Suffolk every year, we recognize the great responsibility that comes with protecting our residents,” Romaine said. “With the appointment of Deputy Commissioner Galati and the Department’s renewed commitment to counterterrorism, our residents can rest assured that they are safe and are being protected by the finest men and women in law enforcement.”
“I’ve had the privilege of working with Thomas Galati for more than 20 years in a variety of roles across New York City, and I’ve seen firsthand the depth of his expertise and dedication,” Catalina said. “He is an internationally respected authority in counterterrorism and intelligence, and we’re proud to welcome him to our leadership team. His experience will be an invaluable asset as we safeguard our communities and confront today’s evolving security challenges.”
“I’m honored to return to law enforcement and serve Suffolk County residents with the same commitment and focus that have guided me for nearly four decades,” Galati said. “With 39 years of experience — much of it dedicated to counterterrorism — I’m excited to bring that perspective to this new role and support the dedicated professionals working to keep our residents safe.”
Galati comes to Suffolk County after serving 39 years in the New York Police Department (NYPD) and is an expert in homeland security. He retired from NYPD as the Chief of Intelligence and Counterterrorism where he oversaw the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force, the Intelligence Division, and the Counterterrorism Division. Deputy Commissioner Galati coordinated detailed security plans for high-profile events, including the United Nations General Assembly.
As part of the county’s efforts to ensure public safety, the Suffolk County Police Department announced several measures to stay ahead of evolving threats, including the launch of the Drone as First Responder program and increase the use of online open-source intelligence to detect threats early. Department officials will continue to focus on security during large-scale events within Suffolk County to eliminate potential incidents.
The department renewed its commitment to share intelligence with its law enforcement partners, adopt best practices and stay ahead of evolving threats.
To report a threat, residents are encouraged to contact Suffolk County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS, where tips remain 100% anonymous.