Since 2011, Suffolk County in Long Island has reached at least seven settlement agreements with police officers accused of misconduct, allowing some to remain on the force and collect six-figure salaries while becoming eligible for full pensions, according to reports. These agreements have reportedly cost taxpayers approximately $7 million.

The settlements, reached between the county and the officers involved, permitted some officers to continue their employment long enough to complete the 20 years of service required for pension eligibility. Cases cited include an officer accused of taking a Breathalyzer test on behalf of an intoxicated off-duty colleague and another alleged to have punched a man while holding handcuffs.

Mike Martino, spokesperson for Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, indicated that these deals were negotiated during the administration of former Executive Steve Bellone and under former police chief Rodney Harrison. Harrison has denied authorizing such agreements despite his signature appearing on some of the documents.

Lou Civello, president of the Police Benevolent Association, defended the settlements, emphasizing that an admission of general misconduct does not necessarily confirm the underlying allegations. Civello characterized the officers’ concessions as acknowledgments of procedural errors rather than admissions of guilt, explaining that the settlements represent an agreement to accept penalties without further dispute.

The practice of settling claims without removing officers from service has prompted questions about accountability and fiscal responsibility as taxpayers bear the financial burden. Officials from Suffolk County have not announced any changes to the current policies governing such settlements.