The caravan of cars started in Nassau County and ended with a crowd of hundreds gathering at the H. Lee Dennison Suffolk County agency building in Hauppauge. The “Caravan for Justice and Change” was meant to help address the need for systemic changes in the U.S., according to a statement on the Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD) Facebook page.

 

SCPD Commissioner Geraldine Hart and Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone both attended the rally.

 

Photo: SCPD Facebook page.

 

“We thank Suffolk County residents for allowing us to protect and serve during this difficult time of growth for policing and our country," the police statement said. "We see the signs, but know they refer to the few who fail to protect and serve. We know that as we, and other departments, are steadfast and do our job with professionalism and respect. SCPD honors our uniform, profession and the communities we serve.”

 

In his statement on Facebook, County Executive Bellone said he joined the demonstration to show solidarity and speak out against injustice.

 

“For too many, this is a moment of sadness and frustration, but it is also an opportunity to turn that righteous anger that exists into positive action,” he said.

 

Photo: SCPD Facebook page.

 

Photo: SCPD Facebook page.