Senate Resolution No. 1799

BY: Senator MATTERA

MOURNING the untimely death and paying tribute to
the life and heroic service of Nassau County Police
Officer Patricia Espinosa who died on Saturday,
January 31, 2026

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to convey its
grateful appreciation and heartful regret in recognition of the untimely
death of a courageous police officer who dedicated her purposeful life
and career in faithful service to her family and to the residents of
Nassau County, New York; and

WHEREAS, It is with profound sadness that this Legislative Body
records the passing of Nassau County Police Officer Patricia Espinosa,
who tragically died in a car accident while driving to work on Saturday,
January 31, 2026; and

WHEREAS, Officer Patricia Espinosa emigrated from Quito, Ecuador
when she was 21, and quickly upon arriving in the United States, she
learned English and began building a career centered on public service
and community engagement; and

WHEREAS, Having previously served as a New York State correctional
officer, Officer Patricia Espinosa made the brave commitment in 2017 to
serve the residents of Nassau County by joining the Nassau County Police
Department, a job that she dreamed of having when she arrived in the
United States; and

WHEREAS, Officer Patricia Espinosa worked in the Fifth Precinct of
the Nassau County Police Department, stationed in Elmont, New York; and

WHEREAS, Determined to make a difference both within and outside the
Nassau County Police Department, Officer Patricia Espinosa was actively
involved with the Nassau County Police Hispanic Society, served as a
field training officer, and participated in youth mentorship initiatives
and community outreach efforts; and

WHEREAS, Those who had the privilege of working alongside Officer
Patricia Espinosa describe her as strong, deeply compassionate, and
known for being a community favorite with an infectious smile; and

WHEREAS, Officer Patricia Espinosa exemplified what it truly means
to give of herself in providing vital police services in keeping with
the noble mission of the Nassau County Police Department; and

WHEREAS, A true hero, Officer Patricia Espinosa is survived by her
loving husband, Nassau County Police Officer Francisco Malaga; her
beloved two-year-old daughter, Mia; her siblings; and many others who
had the privilege of knowing her; and

WHEREAS, Officer Patricia Espinosa's infinite selflessness and
benevolence will shine on through her family's vivid and happy memories;
her life of service and strength will forever serve as a beacon of love,
light, and hope to the countless lives she touched; and


WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of
compassion, Officer Patricia Espinosa leaves behind a legacy which will
long endure the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory
to all who were privileged to have known and loved such an amazing
woman; she will be deeply missed and truly merits the grateful tribute
of this Legislative Body; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the untimely death of Nassau County Police Officer Patricia
Espinosa, and to express its deepest condolences to her family; and be
it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Nassau County Police Officer Patricia
Espinosa.