Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman is facing a lawsuit from county Democrats attempting to block his initiative for a volunteer force of armed civilian deputies. Blakeman claims this legal action is politically motivated and infringes upon his rights as an elected official. His attorneys argue the lawsuit is a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP), and they seek dismissal and reimbursement for legal costs. Scheduled court hearings could define the limits of local governments in deploying armed civilians for public safety, amidst criticisms labeling the initiative akin to a militia.
They are trying to violate - not only my rights as an individual citizen - but my rights as county executive to represent the people of Nassau County.
The first court hearing is set for June 19...a high-stakes showdown that could set precedent for how far local governments can go in enlisting armed civilians for public safety efforts.
Blakeman's attorneys said the lawsuit qualifies as a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation, or SLAPP, and they're now asking for a judge to toss the case and force the Dems to pay his legal fees.
They brought a lawsuit against me to try to get me to not speak out about issues I think are important.
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