Dear Members;

COBA's foremost concern is the safety of our Members who perform one of the toughest jobs in Law Enforcement every day.

As such we point to recent stories of Gang threats against NYPD Officers allegedly emanating out of Suffolk County. These alleged threats have not been substantiated by Law Enforcement and may be related to general gang investigations being conducted by the NYPD.

With this in mind, we cannot stress enough the need for each and every member of this Union to be extra vigilant in both your official duties and in your personal lives. Always be wary of your surroundings both on and off duty, and most importantly watch each other's backs. Never, EVER discuss issues related to your personal life anywhere within earshot of inmates. Never wear your uniform off duty, to or from work or when you are not armed or don't have immediate and direct contact with the Dept's Communication Unit. NEVER work an outside post (Hospital, Transportation etc.) without a weapon or most importantly without your ballistic vest.

The Union is always locked in a battle with the Dept/County to enhance security and provide the proper tools to perform our duties. We all know that to be a frustrating and never ending problem. We are sworn to provide Care Custody and Control of inmates, and as Peace Officers to protect the public. This job has inherent dangers due to its basic nature. We all knew that when we took the Oath. But never think that the routine performance of your duties ever includes having your personal safety or that of your partners put at an unnecessary risk. If you are ever directed to work a post requiring basic protective gear and do not have your own or are not provided with it, OPEN YOUR MOUTH.

Notify your Supervisor, Tour Commander etc. If there is still some issue, then notify the Union. The issue will be rectified. Whether you have one day on this job or 30 years, don't ever be afraid to open your mouth when it comes to protecting yourself or your fellow Officers. No one can protect you better than yourself, and no one can protect us all better than all of us collectively.

Continue doing the fantastic job you do every day in this thankless profession. The public will never understand just how essential you are in protecting them every day. Always protect yourself and always look out for each other.

Yours in Unionism

Brian Sullivan, COBA President