On Tuesday, 11/25/2025, Sr. PO Watrous and PO Forman were presented with the Distinguished Service Award by the Suffolk County Legislature stemming from the following:

On 7/21/25, Sr. Probation Officer Lara Watrous and Probation Officer Jonah Forman made an unannounced home visit on a case currently under the supervision of the Department of Probation.

Upon gaining access into the home, it was determined the probationer was under the influence of alcohol, in a direct violation of his Conditions of Probation.  A search of the probationer’s home was conducted and a loaded Sig Sauer 9mm handgun was recovered from the dresser draw in the probationer’s bedroom.    

The probationer was placed under arrest and charged with:

Criminal Possession of a Firearm-possess a firearm (PL 265.01-B 01 EF)

Criminal Possession Weapon 3^rd: Previous Conviction (PL 265.02 01 DF)

Criminal Possession Weapon 3^rd: Ammunition Feeding device (PL 265.02 08 DF)

Thanks to the decisive reaction in the field, by both Officer Jonah Forman and Officer Lara Watrous they were able to secure the scene and get a loaded illegal hand gun off the streets.  This incident  is another example of the daily dangers  Suffolk County Probation Officers face while in the field.  Another stellar performance by Suffolk County Probation.

More pictures coming soon in the Photo Gallery.