Suffolk Courts Celebrate Amado's Promotion to Major

Tony Amado was promoted from Captain to Major in the New York State Court Officers during a ceremony at the John P. Cohalan Jr. Court Complex in Central Islip.

Hosted by Suffolk District Administrative Judge Andrew A. Crecca and presided over by Chief Court Officer David Santiago, the ceremony drew judges, court officers, attorneys, staff and family members. The courtroom was filled to capacity, with additional viewers watching via livestream.

“Today we gather to recognize not only a promotion, but a career that has been defined by dedication, professionalism, and service,” said District Administrative Judge Crecca. “Tony Amado has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership and an unwavering commitment to public safety, and he has earned a reputation for excellence, integrity, and reliability. Time and time again, he has gone above and beyond the call of duty to help colleagues, judges, court staff, attorneys, litigants, and members of the public.”

Amado joined the court system in 2006 and became Sergeant in 2016. His assignments included judicial protection, firearms instruction, defensive tactics training and the Special Response Team. Promoted to Captain of Training in 2023, he oversaw more than 280 officers.

“I’ve often times described Tony as my Swiss Army Knife,” said Chief David Santiago. “Whenever I needed a task to be done or a unit to be run, Tony always accepted the call and stepped up to lead and inspire others. It didn’t matter what unit I put Tony in, or the assignment I gave him, Tony handled himself with such confidence and dedication that I never had to look over my shoulder or double-check to see that it got done.”

Amado received the 2024 Noel Bonilla II Achievement Award and helped establish Suffolk’s Law Enforcement Explorers Program.

“A good leader is nothing without a great team behind them,” said the newly minted Major. “All I can say is that I greatly appreciate all of my fellow court officers, instructors, judges, court staff, my family and friends—I can’t thank you enough.”

Amado will lead Riverhead West Command, joining three other full-time Majors overseeing Suffolk court operations.