Lawmaker criticized for expressing frustration over migrant crime: 'Political opportunist'

Nassau County law enforcement is being criticized by Democratic New York Rep. Dan Goldman for his comments about them during a House hearing on illegal immigration, where he expressed excitement about no longer having to interact with Nassau police officers.

During the hearing, Nassau County Police Commissioner Pat Ryder, who testified, was "surprised" by Goldman's remarks, which he deemed "disrespectful" to all law enforcement personnel.

During a House Subcommittee on Emergency Management and Technology hearing titled "Given the Green Light: Open Border Policies and Threats to Law Enforcement," an incident occurred.

Goldman, who represents parts of Manhattan and Brooklyn, was shocked to have to sit through another hearing about the illegal immigration crisis and expressed his exhaustion at hearing from Nassau County, New York, law enforcement officials.

Goldman expressed surprise that the topic was being discussed again in a hearing, stating, "We have certainly exhausted this topic."

"We have likely had every law enforcement official from Nassau County appear before this subcommittee. I won't be disappointed when the chairman is not present next term."

During his questioning, Goldman frequently interrupted law enforcement officials, including shouting "It’s my time sir" when Jonathan Thompson tried to complete an answer.

During the hearing, D'Esposito, representing Nassau County in Congress, highlighted that Goldman, worth $253 million and heir to the Levi Strauss & Co. jeans company, resides in the county and was among the residents protected by Nassau officers.

D'Esposito immediately stated that he believed Goldman did not intend any disrespect to the people of Nassau County, as he valued Goldman's summer home being kept safe by Commissioner Ryder each year.

The chairman expressed his disappointment towards Dan Goldman, stating that it was predictable behavior from a partisan hack.

D'Esposito stated that Congressman Goldman should take inspiration from the work done in Nassau County and not look forward to hearing from police officials.

The National Association of Police Organizations' executive director, Bill Johnson, consistently takes a stance that is at odds with public safety concerns when discussing the issue on Planet Chronicle Digital.

Johnson stated, "It's not surprising that he doesn't want to hear from those who are out protecting our communities because he's just playing to form and is unaware. That's all."

Goldman displayed unprofessionalism during the hearing, according to Ryder's statement to Planet Chronicle Digital.

Ryder stated that he would take time out of his schedule to prepare a statement, present the PowerPoint, and send it all in. He arrived at the location yesterday morning at 4 a.m. and presented his statement to Congress. However, before he could answer any questions, Congress made a blanket statement, implying that Ryder was offending him by being there. Additionally, regarding law enforcement, Congress expressed his frustration with hearing from the Nassau County Police Department.

Ryder was eager to share his expertise on the challenges law enforcement faces responding to the migrant crisis and migrant crime in his community. However, he had no idea why Goldman seemed to be personally bothered by his presence.

"We must prioritize the needs of our residents in Nassau County. He must prioritize the needs of his residents in New York City. However, to behave disrespectfully at a public hearing without reason — I did not attack him personally — I was taken aback. And I found it unfair that he would attack someone who was simply there to share their opinion and data on the migrant crime issue," he stated.

Although he thinks his message was understood by those on the right side of the aisle, he stated, "I am not certain if it was comprehended by everyone on the left side of the aisle, particularly Congressman Goldman."

"Ryder added, "I thought it was also disrespectful that he got up and left right after making his statement. The hearings were not over.""

Nassau County officers could teach Goldman and other politicians who criticize law enforcement how to do their jobs effectively.

"Law enforcement officers and professionals are committed to carrying out their duties regardless of the law or challenges they face. We accept this without question and simply do our job. Our approach to migrant issues is proactive, but we always ensure that we are respectful and fair. It would be beneficial for everyone to learn from this level of professionalism."