Altogether, three Democratic candidates—Richard M. Aborn, Snyder, and Cyrus R. Vance Jr.—and one GOP candidate, Greg Camp, are in the race of replacing the empty spot left by Manhattan District Attorney Robert Morgenthau.
Snyder is proposing a specialized Counterterrorism Bureau within the District Attorney’s office, bringing together the anti-terrorist groups in Manhattan to work together and synchronize information.
“It is critical that we organize and direct our efforts into the District Attorney’s office by a bureau, which is headed by someone who has expertise in counterterrorism,” said Snyder.
The bureau would be headed by an assistant district attorney with the necessary security clearance to access classified information. The rest of the staff will be specially trained assistant district attorneys, paralegals and expert financial investigators, who will examine and analyze documents.
“We will link and cooperate with every federal agency, share information and have a formal on-going relationship with each agency. It is obvious that the solutions to this enormous problem are not within the capabilities of any single office or agency. We must all work together… no one can predict the future, what we want to do is prevent the attacks.” she said.
Michael Palladino, president of Detectives’ Endowment Association, who represents many active and retired NYPD detectives, stood beside Snyder in support of the proposal. Since 9/11 terrorist attacks, the NYPD has put forth several counterterrorism initiatives.
“I think it’s an excellent idea, especially in this post-9/11 world that we live in,” said Palladino. “New York City, specifically the borough of Manhattan, remains the primary target for terrorists.”
Judge Snyder has served as a prosecutor, judge and public servant for 35 years. As a prosecutor, she founded and led the nation’s first Sex Crimes Prosecution Bureau and co-authored legislation that including New York’s Rape Shield Law.
If elected, she would become the first female District Attorney in Manhattan.
The Democratic primary election will occur on September 15, followed by a final election on November 3.
