New Nassau Police Commissioner Lawrence Mulvey has transferred Assistant Commissioner Denis Monette to the Office of Emergency Management to be his liason with the agency as part of his reorganization of the police department.
The two have a history: Monette, a former Nassau detective, retired on disability in 1990 while facing disciplinary charges that he had inappropriately sought a search warrent after an arrest and search had already been conducted in a fireworks seizure. Mulvey was the supervising officer at the scene of the arrest, and publicly criticized Monette’s actions.
In 2002, County Executive Thomas Suozzi brought back Monette, who contributed to Suozzi’s successful 2001 county executive campaign and sometimes served as Suozzi’s driver. Mulvey retired in 2001 after 28 years on the force and recently was brought back by Suozzi to head the department. He also sometimes chauffeured Suozzi upstate during his unsuccessful campaign for governor.
Mulvey said Monette’s transfer has nothing to do with any lingering bad blood. “There was an incident many years ago and has no bearing,” Mulvey said. “I recognize his talents and will utilize his talents. He will benefit the police department in this capacity.”
Mulvey said Monette will keep his title but earn $10,000 more, for a total $110,000 annual salary, because of his enhanced duties and added responsibilities.
Celeste Hadrick
Comments (1)
Another reason our taxes are so high. How does one retire from the NCPD with job-realted disability and, while collecting a disability pension, get appointed as an assistant commissioner with the same department? Unreal! Did anyone check into this?