Sheriff's Office: 'Suffolk County Is A Resilient Community'

SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY — In light of the recent coronavirus pandemic hitting Long Island, Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr. released a message to the community on Monday in response. The first coronavirus-related death has been reported in Suffolk County as the number of confirmed cases in the county climbed to 63, according to reports. Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the death during a call with reporters Monday morning. In addition, officials announced that as of 8 p.m., all bars, restaurants, gyms, movie theaters, casinos and race tracks would close until further notice in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Restaurants were told to transition to takeout and delivery services only. Non-essential travel between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m. will be discouraged.

In his letter, Toulon is asking Suffolk residents to remain calm and work together to get through this as a community.

Read his full letter below:

Dear Residents of Suffolk County:

As we navigate our county into uncharted waters with the Coronavirus Pandemic, I want to remind you all that Suffolk County is a resilient community. We take care of each other and show compassion on a daily basis. When Superstorm Sandy devastated Suffolk County, our residents came together, supporting those in need and making changes in daily routines. We are, again, being asked to make changes to our everyday lives, including social distancing, working from home, and finding new childcare arrangements. While these changes are disruptive and uncomfortable, they are necessary to protect those in our community who are the most vulnerable.

The Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office is prepared to face this challenging time with you. We will continue to provide you with the exceptional service you deserve. We do, however, ask you to work with us to reduce or mitigate the spread of the virus. Most Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office bureaus are available via phone or website. If you do not need to visit our offices, please contact us from home.

I encourage you to continue to support the businesses in your community. While dining out in restaurants may be discouraged, ordering take-out is still an acceptable option. Local stores and businesses continue to receive shipments and will have the items you need; there is no need to hoard supplies. Finally, take the time to call your friends, check in on neighbors, and communicate with the elderly. Take a walk outside with your family and enjoy the fresh air. This is a time for us all to come together as a community. Remain calm, wash your hands, and stay positive. We will get through this crisis together.