Two law enforcement organizations, the Westchester County Corrections Officers Benevolent Association (WCOBA) and the Police Conference of New York, Inc. (PCNY), have endorsed Pete Harckham, who is running for a fourth term in the New York State Senate.
The announcement of the endorsements was made in two separate letters to Harckham, who has enjoyed wide support from law enforcement since being elected to the State Senate in 2018.
“The dedication and work of our police and law enforcement professionals, who protect us day and night, deserve our grateful support,” said Harckham. “The immense responsibilities they shoulder when they put on the uniform is something few of us truly understand. That’s why these endorsements mean so much to me. I am humbled that these two organizations are championing my campaign for re-election, and I will do all I can to ensure they have the proper resources to continue their service in keeping our communities safe.”
Formed in 1983, WCOBA represents the more than 700 active corrections officers who work in Westchester County to maintain order and safeguard the institutions that house individuals in custody.
WCOBA President Neil Pellone, said, “Westchester COBA is pleased to endorse New York State Senator Pete Harckham for reelection. Senator Harckham’s continued support for the correctional occupation makes this an easy decision. Whether it was securing a $200,000 state grant to enhance our Personal Body Alarm System or co-sponsoring our recently passed into law “Death Gamble Bill,” his actions speak volumes in enhancing the quality of life for all WCOBA members.”
Added Pellone, “Many of our active and retired members reside in New York’s 40th Senate District, and we believe that it is very important to have him remain in office to be an advocate on our behalf.”
The Police Conference of New York, Inc. was established in 1925 as an umbrella organization of law enforcement unions, and has since evolved into a pre-eminent police labor organization. Representing approximately 50,000 individuals, it is the largest police organization in the state. It is affiliated with the National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO) and the New York State Public Employee Conference (NYSPEC).
Since taking office, Harckham has delivered over $8 million in state grant funding for police departments and first responders in his district.