ALBANY, N.Y.—Today the Police Benevolent Association of New York State released the following statement, attributable to President James McCartney:
“The capture of homicide suspect Anthony Bechand represents the very best of what can be achieved when law enforcement agencies work together in our shared mission to protect the public. The search for this suspect was a large-scale, multi-day operation across terrain which demands tireless effort, situational knowledge, long hours and seamless coordination. From the New York State Forest Rangers, New York State Police and U.S. Marshals, to local law enforcement and countless others, every individual played a critical role in bringing this dangerous individual into custody.
New York State Forest Rangers, represented by the PBA of New York State, were deeply involved in leading portions of this search, drawing upon hundreds of combined years of experience in traversing and mapping the Adirondack State Park. Forest Rangers served as crew bosses for interagency search teams and provided map and field support, ensuring that operations were organized and effective. Forest Rangers are now leading interagency teams searching for evidence near the area where the suspect was apprehended.
The New York State Forest Rangers’ work, both on the front lines and behind-the-scenes, demonstrates the vital role that New York’s specialized agency law enforcement personnel play in these complex, high-stakes investigations.
On behalf of the PBA of New York State, I commend every Forest Ranger, Trooper, law enforcement officer and partner agency that contributed to bringing this case to a safe conclusion. When crises arise, the citizens of New York can take heart that the men and women of state law enforcement will always stand ready to answer the call.”
About PBA of New York State: Established in 2011, the Police Benevolent Association of New York State (PBA of New York State) is a law enforcement labor union representing the interests of approximately 1,200 members of the New York State Agency Police Services Unit (APSU). The PBA of New York State is the exclusive bargaining agent for the New York State University Police, the New York State Environmental Conservation Police (ECO), the New York State Park Police and the New York State Forest Rangers. Our members patrol and protect New York State’s public universities and colleges, state parks and historic sites, and enforce all state laws and regulations protecting New York’s lands, forests, waterways, environment and citizens. Learn more at pbanys.org.