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Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman signed a new executive order permitting federal, state and local law enforcement officers to wear masks in public, if necessary, for safety reasons. It is intended to allow officers to protect their identities during specific operations and in the performance of their duties—provided they have departmental approval.
This move comes despite Nassau County’s standing policy that prohibits wearing masks in public unless for health, safety or religious reasons. The updated executive order clarifies that law enforcement will not be prosecuted for wearing masks to conceal their identities during approved operations.
Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder backed the measure, citing a recent incident in Westbury where a crowd gathered and filmed Nassau police and federal agents after an accident involving ICE officers. Ryder emphasized that while patrol officers will not routinely wear masks, special cases—such as the Westbury situation—highlight the need to protect the identities of agents who could become targets.
"It got out of hand real quick," Ryder stated. "We got the ICE agents out of there—they had an accident."
Some residents voiced concern over the policy. “Law enforcement can cover up their face and identity… but we can’t? That’s not right. Aren’t we supposed to have the same kind of rights?” one resident questioned.
Others supported the decision, arguing that agents need more protection: “ICE agents should wear masks. I don't think we are doing enough to protect our agents, our police.”
However, not everyone agrees with the executive order’s potential impact. Luis Mendez, former deputy director of the Nassau County Office of Minority Affairs, expressed concern over the long-term consequences.
“There is a trust that the minorities have with the police department based on many years of working together,” Mendez said. “This order could be harmful in the long run.”
The executive order continues to spark debate across the county as officials balance public safety with civil liberties.
