Griffo statement on Speaker Heastie’s comments regarding retail worker attacks

New York State Sen. Joseph Griffo, R-C-Rome, released the following statement today regarding a recent news article in which Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie indicated that he does not support tougher sentences for those who attack retail workers:

“Speaker Heastie is out of touch with the needs of businesses in New York, especially those that I represent in the 53rd Senate District. We have seen an increase in retail thefts, assaults on employees and overall lawlessness because of the policies supported by the Speaker and the legislative majorities and because criminals know that there are no consequences for their actions.

I have met with business owners, law enforcement, state and local elected officials and other stakeholders and have advanced solutions to address retail theft. This has included strengthening the penalties on shoplifters and providing additional resources and funding to small businesses to help them improve and enhance security.

Enough is enough. Our businesses need help, their employees should be protected and criminals must be held accountable. I will continue to push for action that will bring much needed relief to business owners across the state.”

###