Nassau, Suffolk police step up security across LI in wake of mass shootings

Officials on Long Island are proposing new safety measures in the wake of this weekend's two mass shootings.

News 12 Staff

Aug 5, 2019, 10:02 AM

Updated 1,970 days ago

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Officials on Long Island are proposing new safety measures in the wake of this weekend's two mass shootings.
Both Nassau and Suffolk County police say that there are no imminent threats to Long Island, but that they are stepping up patrols as a safety precaution.
Nassau legislator Josh Lafazan proposed the creation of a permanent committee, designed to ensure that businesses and public centers, like malls, shopping centers and train stations, are kept safe, and that residents know what to do in an active shooter situation.
He says the committee will be focused on researching and combating crisis situations, and that Democrats and Republicans would both be involved in talking to people to see if there are any vulnerabilities when it comes to dealing with a possible mass shooting. The proposal also includes hospital management and younger residents, who may be able to spot something on social media quickly.
There is no committee in Nassau County solely focused on crisis response. Lafazan says he is putting in a formal request for the proposal to the legislature Monday.
Suffolk County police chief Stewart Cameron tells News 12 that responding and preventing a mass shooting is a priority.
"The statistics show there is an increase of a copycat attack," says Cameron.
Cameron says the public plays a large role in preventing an active shooter situation, by saying something if they see something suspicious. Suffolk County police have also noted plans to increase their police presence, specifically at popular night spots, including Patchogue Village and Port Jefferson.
Residents on Long Island told News 12 they are worried about being caught in those situations.
"It can happen right now to us," said Maryellen Doyle, a retired teacher from Nesconset.
Officials say families should prepared for active shooter situations by: having a plan and defined meeting place, immediately identifying other ways out of a building, leaving belongings behind and getting out of a shooter's view and staying quiet.
The Suffolk Police Department also offers courses to the public on how to deal with an active shooter situation.