The Rockland County Legislature formally recognized the Sheriff’s Civil Enforcement Division for achieving reaccreditation from the New York State Sheriffs’ Association, a distinction awarded to only half of the state’s counties.
To earn the accreditation, the division had to meet 121 rigorous standards, submit detailed compliance reports, and undergo a comprehensive on-site audit. The accomplishment was celebrated in a ceremony attended by County Legislature Chairman Jay Hood Jr., Public Safety Committee Chairman Paul Cleary, and top officials from the NYS Sheriffs’ Association.
Chairman Hood presented a Proclamation to Sheriff Louis Falco III, commending the division’s dedication to professionalism, training, and public service. “By meeting these high standards, the Sheriff’s Office demonstrates its commitment to keeping Rockland residents safe through professional and accountable law enforcement,” said Hood.
NYS Sheriffs’ Association Executive Director Peter Kehoe and President Sheriff James Quattrone also presented awards to Sheriff Falco and the Civil Division Accreditation Team, which includes Division Chief Dennis Salemo, Lt. Christopher Schaub, Sgt. Phil Ursillo, Deputy Vincent Abbatecola, and Principal Clerk Joyce DelRosario.
Only 31 of New York’s 62 counties have an accredited Civil Division, and Rockland is among a select 15 counties to achieve full accreditation across all Sheriff’s Office divisions—Civil, Corrections, Patrol, and Communications.
“This accreditation demonstrates the department’s ability to adapt to evolving public safety challenges,” said Legislator Cleary. “It reflects the professionalism and preparedness of Sheriff Falco’s team.”
Accreditation brings operational and administrative efficiency, reduces liability, ensures fair hiring and promotion practices, and boosts public trust. Sheriff Falco emphasized the importance of the process, saying, “This recognition reflects the hard work of both sworn and civilian staff who uphold the highest standards in civil law enforcement.”
The Civil Enforcement Division is responsible for enforcing court directives, including garnishments, evictions, seizures, and arrests—often in high-risk situations. It has maintained accreditation since 2009, undergoing thorough reassessments every five years.