Assembly Resolution No. 118

BY: M. of A. Palumbo

MOURNING the death of Detective Brian P. Simonsen,
19-year veteran of the NYPD and devoted member of
his community

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to convey its
grateful appreciation and heartfelt regret in recognition of the loss of
courageous individuals who dedicated their purposeful lives and careers
to serve and protect; and

WHEREAS, It is with feelings of deepest regret that this Legislative
Body records the passing of Detective Brian P. Simonsen, an
extraordinary gentleman of indomitable faith and dedication whose
purposeful life will long serve as a standard to which others might
aspire; and

WHEREAS, Detective Brian P. Simonsen tragically died on Tuesday,
February 12, 2019, at the age of 42; he made the ultimate sacrifice
during an armed robbery at a T-Mobile store in Queens, New York; and

WHEREAS, In 1995, Brian P. Simonsen graduated from Riverhead High
School where he was a vital member of both the football and baseball
teams; in 2000, he was appointed to the NYPD 102nd Precinct in Richmond
Hill, Queens; and

WHEREAS, Throughout his nearly 19-year career, Detective Brian P.
Simonsen was well-known for his patience, steadiness and laid-back
demeanor, earning him respect from not only his superiors and fellow
officers, but also the residents of the communities he patrolled; and

WHEREAS, Affectionately known by many as "Smiles," Brian P. Simonsen
will be remembered as an all-around good guy who served as an honorary
uncle to the young people of his neighborhood who looked forward to
attending his fabled pool parties and backyard barbecues; a genuinely
thoughtful man, he always took the time to make someone else's life
better, whether through a supportive word or a random act of kindness;
and

WHEREAS, Brian P. Simonsen truly loved his Calverton, New York,
community; he played on the Riverhead Town Police Department's softball
team, and could often be found shopping at a local bodega or enjoying
chicken salads from a nearby pizzeria; and

WHEREAS, Predeceased by his father, Dr. Paul M. Simonsen, and his
sister, Melissa, Brian P. Simonsen is survived by his wife, Leanne; his
mother, Linda; grandfather, Vernon; and many friends, as well as a
legion of fellow officers in blue who will long cherish his memory; and

WHEREAS, Detective Brian P. Simonsen lived his life with great
dignity and genuine grace, always demonstrating a deep and continuing
concern for the welfare of others in the great State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Detective Brian P. Simonsen made the ultimate sacrifice on
February 12, 2019, while faithfully executing his responsibilities,
serving with dedication, loyalty and compassion; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the untimely death of NYPD Detective Brian P. Simonsen, 19-year
veteran of the NYPD and devoted member of his community; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of NYPD Detective Brian P. Simonsen.