Lupiancci Recognizes Suffolk County Police Officer Mark Collins

On Tuesday, June 7, Assemblyman Chad A. Lupinacci (R,C,I-South Huntington) and his Assembly colleagues welcomed a true hero to Albany. Officer Mark Collins, of the Suffolk County Police Force, was honored for his remarkable effort in a near-death encounter early last year.

On March 11, 2015 Officer Collins and two of his partners were conducting surveillance in known gang territory when they spotted an erratic driver. While the officers conducted a police stop, one subject fled from the car and was pursued by Officer Collins. This chase eventually led to a confrontation, which led to the subject producing a hand gun and firing at Officer Collins from point blank. In the end, Officer Collins was struck twice, seriously wounding and temporarily paralyzing him. He remained strong, calling for help and was able to help assist with the arrest before being airlifted to Stony Brook University Hospital where the staff was able to save his life. After rehabilitation, Collins rejoined the force, this time as part of the emergency services section.

“Officer Collins is the definition of an everyday hero,” said Lupinacci. “We are thankful to have individuals such as him in our community. The bravery of the men and women in our law enforcement grant all of us the ability to live with peace of mind and to pursue our dreams without fear of violence. This everyday notion is one many of us take for granted; however, individuals like Officer Collins remind us of the special people we should be thanking each day.”

The individual responsible for the attack on Officer Collins is currently serving 55 years to life in prison.

###