District consists of parts of East Massapequa and parts of South Farmingdale.
Party: Democrat
Bio: Kwani O’Pharrow served in the Navy from 1990-1994 as radioman petty officer 3rd Class (RM3)-Intel and retired from the New York City Police as a Detective after 28 years.
His extensive NYPD career included serving as a school officer, community patrol officer, domestic violence officer, and investigating gangs. He also held various plainclothes details and was assigned to the chief of departments’ office.
O’Pharrow’s final assignment was in the Intelligence Bureau, where he protected dignitaries such as Presidents Obama and Trump. In 2019, O’Pharrow co-founded CopsnKids Long Island, Inc., an organization focused on mentoring youth and fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and young people. His work included collaborating with local leaders and organizations to administer youth boxing events in the community during events such as National Night Out, working with youth on a Know Your Rights workshop, financial planning, entrepreneurship, and encouraging young people to join the police department.
O’Pharrow directed Operation Giveback, a program providing essential supplies and toys to families and youth during the holiday season. In Brentwood, O’Pharrow oversees a specialized unit called SACRO (Student & Community Relations Officers). Through this role, he forges connections between students, communities, faith-based organizations, and law enforcement. In addition, Kwani collaborates with SCPD police officer candidates, assisting them with physical training to ensure they meet the initial physical requirements.
As a New York State Department of Criminal Justice Law Enforcement Instructor, he imparts essential policing skills and community relations training to new New York Racing Association Peace Officer Academy officers.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many families faced challenging times. Kwani worked with local leaders and organizations to personally fund and deliver food to homebound individuals when Meals on Wheels services were disrupted in Suffolk County.
This act of compassion and leadership garnered recognition from reputable sources such as Newsday and News 12, further highlighting his unwavering commitment to serving others.
Candidate Kwani O’Pharrow’s Top 3 issues:
O’Pharrow’s platform is rooted in public safety, equal access and veteran care. He aims to build trust and collaboration between law enforcement and communities, improve access to quality education for all students, and provide support for families through affordable housing and mental health services. He also seeks to honor and support veterans, ensuring they have access to services, advocate for programs that help seniors age in place with dignity and access to essential services.
Submitted by the campaign office of Kwani O’Pharrow.
