Suffolk Reporter

Senator Mario R. Mattera of the 2nd Senate District was present at the graduation ceremony for the 214th Session of the Basic School of the New York State Police Academy. The event took place at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center in Albany, under Superintendent Steven G. James' leadership.

Among the graduating class of 228 new State Troopers was Anthony (A.J.) Tarquinio, a former intern in Senator Mattera’s office. Tarquinio is a 2020 graduate of Smithtown High School East and holds a degree in Homeland Security and Cyber Security from the University of Albany.

Senator Mattera expressed his admiration for Tarquinio, stating, “A.J. is a terrific young man who will be a superior New York State Trooper. His time with my office showed my staff how dedicated he is and how he is a focused young man. I wish him and all those graduating today all the best. Our men and women in blue are so vital to our families and I thank every one of the new officers for deciding to join this illustrious department.”

In addition to Trooper Tarquinio, six other recruits from the 2nd Senate District were among the graduates:

- Joseph Esposito from Hauppauge

- Jeremy Gerdvil from East Northport

- Adrian Gervasio from Huntington

- Christian Holmes from Hauppauge

- Ryan McQuaed from Huntington Station

- Sean McSweeney from Huntington

Senator Mattera extended his blessings to these young men as well, saying, “God bless each and every one of these young men for taking on this tremendous task and for dedicating themselves to serving our residents. Their service keeps all of us safe and we are immensely appreciative of all of them. We wish them all the best in their future career.”