Blakeman Plans To Condemn 'Nazi' Comparison To Armed Deputies Plan

GLEN COVE, NY — In the wake of comments made to Patch on Wednesday, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman was planning media availability on Thursday, "condemning the comparison of law enforcement to Nazis and the Holocaust," an online post stated.

The media appearance was scheduled for the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center, despite not receiving specific approval to appear, according to the center.

This quote from Wednesday's article drew the ire of Blakeman, in connection to the county executive's plan for hiring armed citizens during emergencies: "I've had some people tell me it's actually causing them a lot of anxiety," Leg. Delia DeRiggi-Whitton said. "It reminds them not only of the Wild West but of times in Europe with uncertainty. There was something called the Brownshirts, which was basically having civilians all of a sudden become part of law enforcement without the training."

Patch attempted to speak to Blakeman for more on his reaction, but efforts so far have been unsuccessful.

Alan Mindel, chairman of the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center, told Patch the Glen Cove property is owned by the county. They welcome officials at any time, he said, but pointed out the Tolerance Center is not a political organization.

Delving into the historical context, Mindel said, "Hitler, he really had the Brownshirts for his own political uses that helped him achieve his power. They were his hoodlums. I think we have to be really careful about comparing that to a properly elected official in office talking about emergency response services."

Hitler was appointed Chancellor of Germany in 1933.

Still, some feel that Blakeman's remarks at the Tolerance Center could give the optics that they are united in thought.

"I understand the implication of it," Mindel said. "As a center, we can be responsible for what we say. He, as an elected official, can speak for himself."

Mindel knows there are many lessons to learn from the Holocaust, "but one lesson we don't teach, that we don't think is ever a good idea, is for people to compare to individuals that were part of the Nazi regime."

Mindel said Leg. DeRiggi-Whitton has been a "good supporter" of the Tolerance Center.

"Sometimes, very good, smart people say things that aren't always the best things to say," Mindel said.

Not versed on Blakeman's arming people in case of emergencies, Mindel admitted, "There are 100 ways you could interpret it or what it could turn into based on what is so far public, which is limited."

Blakeman and the county sheriff advertised last month, seeking people to apply for the position of provisional special deputy sheriff, to handle the "protection of human life and property during an emergency."

The first requirement listed was having skills in the use of firearms. Possessing a pistol license was also needed. Preference was given to retired law enforcement from any agency, military veterans, licensed security guards and auxiliary police, the ad also stated.