Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine and Legislator Chad Lennon today were joined by Suffolk County Traffic and Parking Violations Bureau Director Bryan Browns and Suffolk County Veterans Agency Director Marcelle Leis to announce the start of the Suffolk County Traffic and Parking Violations Agency’s Veterans Traffic Court for active and retired veterans is now in operation.
“Suffolk County has the largest population of veterans in the state,” said Romaine. “We want to remind these individuals, who have already given so much to us, that Suffolk County is here to support them.”
The new program, held on the third Friday of every month, allows veterans the opportunity to receive guidance and assistance in any traffic matter past or pending. It is a part of Suffolk County’s active commitment to veterans. Veterans Traffic Court will also assist veterans with the DMV and other agencies. Even outside of official Veterans Court hours, someone will be available to the veteran’s community to assist with services and vehicle matters.
Veterans will also be connected to the Department of Veterans Services, located directly above the traffic court, upon arrival. There veterans can connect with county and third-party resources to assist with any unmet needs, including mental health, financial services and acquiring VA benefits.
Legislator Chad Lennon, an active Marine reservist who earned a Purple Heart on active duty in Afghanistan, requested County Executive Romaine and Browns re-open the court, which was shut down under the prior administration.
“I work with both active and inactive military every day and it is clear we need to do more to provide them with the services and guidance they have earned by volunteering for our armed forces,” said Lennon. “I thank County Executive Romaine for his support in this effort.”
The Veterans Traffic Court is staffed by Judicial Hearing Officer Allen S. Mathers, a judge and retired JAG colonel, to oversee these cases. He was placed on active duty on September 11, 2001, and was awarded the New York Army National Guard Conspicuous Service Medal and the US Coast Guard Distinguished Public Service Medal.
Please call (631) 853-3800 for more information on Veterans Traffic Court.