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Floor Speech

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Ms. MALLIOTAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to include in the Record the following Proclamation honoring the retirement of Detective Paul DiGiacomo:

Whereas: Detective Paul DiGiacomo, President of the Detectives' Endowment Association, Inc. (DEA), is to be recognized on June 26, 2024, on the occasion of his retirement from the New York Police Department. The people of New York City thank him for his four decades of service and his commitment to representing the interests of approximately 18,000 active and retired New York Police Department Detectives, the largest detectives' union globally.

Whereas: A Brooklyn native and the son of a transit police officer, Detective DiGiacomo commenced his service in law enforcement with the Housing Police in 1983 before transitioning to the New York Police Department in 1985.

Whereas: Throughout his distinguished career spanning nearly four decades, Detective DiGiacomo has served in various capacities, from patrolling the 70th Precinct in Brooklyn to working in plainclothes with the Borough's Anti-Crime Unit, demonstrating his dedication to protecting and serving the community.

Whereas: Detective DiGiacomo's ascent within the NYPD ranks was marked by his diligent work in the Brooklyn South Narcotics unit, where he rose to prominence in the Major Case Unit while concurrently advocating for his fellow officers as a delegate for the Patrolmen's Benevolent Association (PBA).

Whereas: Recognized for his exceptional investigative skills, Detective DiGiacomo earned his Detective's gold shield in 1993 and continued to excel in assignments within the Organized Crime Investigation Division (OCID), including roles in various gun units and narcotics task forces.

Whereas: In 1999, Detective DiGiacomo assumed the role of Sergeant- at-Arms for the DEA, a position he held with distinction until his promotion to Detective, second grade, by the NYPD in December 2001, in recognition of his exemplary service in an extensive undercover operation related to the homicide of a Queens Police Officer.

Whereas: Detective DiGiacomo's leadership within the DEA continued to evolve as he was elected to successive positions on the Executive Board, culminating in his appointment as President in January 2020, where he now leads the union in navigating challenges ranging from collective bargaining to legislative advocacy amidst a complex socio- political landscape. DiGiacomo spearheads all union activity, including collective bargaining, political activities, overseeing the health and welfare funds, the Annuity Fund, and the union's not-for-profit charity, the DEA Widows' and Children's Fund. The union also engages in a wide variety of internal and external public relations ventures and fraternal functions.

Whereas: Under Detective DiGiacomo's stewardship, the DEA remains steadfast in its mission to protect the rights and welfare of its members, advocating against detrimental policies such as ``bail reform'' and spearheading initiatives like the legislation named after Detective Brian Simonsen aimed at combating cellphone theft.

Whereas: Despite facing unprecedented challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, natural disasters, and civil unrest, Detective DiGiacomo remains resolute in his commitment to advancing the interests of NYPD Detectives with unwavering solidarity and dedication.

It is with great admiration and gratitude that we recognize Detective Paul DiGiacomo for his exceptional leadership and tireless advocacy on behalf of the dedicated men and women of the New York Police Department.

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