Metro

Rally held in support of cops in Staten Island

Around 250 people gathered in front of the 122nd police precinct on Staten Island Thursday to honor the hundreds of NYPD officers who have been killed in the line of duty dating back to the 19th century.

Thomas Kosnik, 44, a retired detective from Staten Island, held a poster over his head showing photos of Detectives Rodney Andrews and James Nemorin, who were killed on Staten Island in March 2013 after an undercover weapons sting went bad.

“I’m here to support all the officers who are getting a bad rap. All the good cops are being lumped in with all the bad cops. The police are here to save people, not hurt them. The attacks on the police and the negativity being spread about them are completely unwarranted,” he said

“My colleagues were killed. They were assassinated and dumped on the ground like garbage. I just want to make sure they get the respect they deserve.”

The rally was organized by local artist Scott LoBaido.

“This is a vigil to pay homage to the NYPD, a show of love and respect to the people who do the most dangerous job in America,” he said.

The rally was planned days before Saturday’s march by the Rev. Al Sharpton protesting the chokehold death of Eric Garner, who died last month as cops were arresting him for selling loose cigarettes.