Police warned of MS-13 threat to 'take out' a police officer

The Nassau County Police Department said in a statement Thursday that it has been made aware of a threat of violence against its officers based on information from Hempstead police.
A person described as a "credible informant" has warned police that MS-13 is looking to shoot an officer on Long Island. According to a police memo, a subject called "Christian" told the informant that police are making too many arrests and that MS-13 wants to take back the streets and "take out" a police officer like in El Salvador. "Christian" is described as a thin, tall, light skinned Hispanic male with three dots tattooed next to his eye.
A statement from Commissioner Patrick Ryder says the department is "taking appropriate action to ensure the safety and security of our officers and medics."
"I will not tolerate any threats against my officers, and the Nassau County Police Department will continue to protect our residents and communities," Ryder said in the statement.
Denis Monette, the former assistant commissioner of Nassau police, says he's not surprised the gang is trying to make a statement by threatening to kill a police officer.
"It says that they're not afraid," said Monette. "To be this bold and brazen just shows you the battle that we have to make it safe, not only for our police officers, but all our residents."
The NYPD says it is also aware of the threats.
"All members of the NYPD were provided with details of the threat, and as always, have been reminded to remain vigilant, on and off duty," said Deputy Commissioner Phillip Walzak. "The NYPD continues to work with local, state and federal law enforcement partners to investigate these threats."
Nassau police are encouraging anyone in the community to call 911 immediately if they see or hear anything regarding any threats. They are offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the MS-13 member who directed others to execute a Hempstead officer.