Chairman Kassar’s Weekly Wrap-Up 8-4-23

Assemblyman Slater Introduces Bill for No Parole For Cop Killers

State Assemblyman Matt Slater’s (R/Yorktown) legislation to deny parole for convicted killers of police officers is a crucial step towards upholding justice and protecting our communities. The recent decision by the New York State Parole Board to release Scott Cobb, involved in the brutal assassination of Officer Edward Byrne, is a glaring example of a flawed system that fails to respect the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers. It sends the wrong message to law-abiding citizens who rely on brave officers like Byrne to protect and serve them in times of need. You can read our full press release here.

As conservatives, we believe in upholding law and order and holding criminals accountable for their actions. Cop killers have committed heinous crimes that forever change the lives of their victims’ families and the communities they serve. Denying them parole is not about revenge but about ensuring public safety and preventing such violent offenders from endangering society once more.

The support from law enforcement leaders like Yorktown Police Chief Robert Noble and Putnam County Sheriff Kevin McConville underscores the urgent need for reform in the parole system. We cannot let criminals who have taken the lives of our brave officers walk free while their victims never see justice. It is our moral duty to stand with law enforcement and ensure that our criminal justice system supports those who risk their lives to protect our families and communities.

“If you kill a police officer, you should never see the light of day again. It’s really that simple and it’s clear that the Parole Board cannot be trusted to act in the best interests of all New Yorkers,” Slater stated. “Democratic majorities in both the State Assembly and the State Senate have a moral obligation to act on this vital legislation immediately.”

Feds Hired NY Health Czar Who Defended Deadly Nursing-Home Order

Three years ago, the state of New York witnessed a grave failure of leadership and accountability in the handling of the nursing home policy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Howard Zucker’s handling of the nursing home crisis was a clear demonstration of incompetence and disregard for the lives of vulnerable seniors. Thousands of nursing home residents tragically lost their lives due to the policy that ordered COVID-positive patients back into these facilities. Instead of taking responsibility and providing accurate information, Zucker attempted to downplay the severity of the situation with a deceptive report and excuses.

To add the cherry on top, the favoritism displayed by Zucker and his Department of Health towards friends and family of the Cuomo-Hochul administration was a shameful misuse of power and resources. While nursing homes struggled to get enough COVID tests for their residents and staff, privileged individuals associated with the administration received preferential treatment and access to testing. This gross misappropriation further exposed the lack of integrity and fairness in Zucker’s leadership.

Despite his glaring failures and controversies, Zucker faced no real consequences for his actions. Instead, he was rewarded with a senior position at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This promotion only adds insult to injury for the families who lost loved ones due to the mishandling of the nursing home policy.

New Yorkers, especially the families of deceased seniors, have not forgotten this betrayal of trust. We demand answers and accountability from Zucker and the entire administration responsible for this tragedy.

Patriots Podium Episode #7

On our 7th episode of Patriots Podium, I will be interviewing Jennifer Harrison, founder of VictimsRightsNY. We will cover an array of relevant topics such as bad criminal laws, causes of crime, and hear from her firsthand about her organization/experience.

A little background: Jennifer is dedicated to ensuring that victims of crimes have a voice, receive fair treatment within the criminal justice system, and are supported throughout the legal process. VictimRightsNY works to raise awareness about victim rights and to bring attention to the challenges faced by crime victims, striving to create a more just and compassionate system for those who have suffered from criminal acts. We are excited to have her on, and we hope you give it a listen.

“For too long, the victims of crime have been the forgotten persons of our criminal justice system”. -Ronald Reagan