A former Long Island police chief facing accusations of indecent exposure has had his lawyer argue that such behavior would be unlikely given his purported “interests in women.” James Burke, who previously served as Suffolk County Police Chief and has a history of legal troubles, can avoid charges of lewd conduct if he stays out of trouble for the next six months, according to court documents.
Brought to the forefront after an incident at Vietnam Veterans Memorial Park on August 22, 2023, Burke was accused of exposing himself to a plainclothes park ranger. However, the case fell apart due to allegations of misconduct against the ranger and two colleagues, as stated by the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office.
Burke’s lawyer, James O’Rourke, emphasized that his client vehemently denies the charges but pointed out that the credibility of the involved rangers is questionable. At the time of Burke’s arrest, police claimed he had solicited sexual favors from the rangers.
O’Rourke expressed that the past decade has been marred by various accusations against Burke. He stated, “He may be many things, but his interests lie in women, not men.” He added that if the situation involved a woman, he might reconsider the strength of Burke’s denial, but it’s not the case here.
After prosecutors announced they could not move forward with the case, Judge Eric Sachs granted an adjournment to contemplate the dismissal. The rangers involved in the incident were charged with misconduct and have since exited their positions.
A spokesperson for the National Police Agency revealed that three Park Police officers involved in the arrest resigned, including one who allegedly witnessed the alleged criminal act. The spokesperson also mentioned that, per New York state law, it was determined a trial would be too burdensome for the public.
Prosecutors deemed the resolution “appropriate.” Once a notable figure in law enforcement, Burke has a checkered past that includes failing to make headway in the Gilgo Beach investigation and resigning from FBI assistance during his tenure from 2012 to 2015.
The investigation into the Gilgo Beach serial killer, notably Rex Heuerman, ramped up in 2023 after he was arrested following Burke’s departure. Heuerman has since pleaded guilty to multiple murders.
Burke himself served time in federal prison after stealing a collection of pornography and sex toys from a police vehicle. Additionally, reports indicated he lost his service weapon during sexual encounters with convicted felons. He also faced a 2016 charge related to a drug-fueled sex party, although his lawyer at the time stated the allegations were not worth a response.
O’Rourke conveyed that Burke is “delighted” to have the criminal proceedings nearing an end. He asserted there’s no reason Burke shouldn’t receive a final dismissal and expressed hope that Burke can enjoy his retirement without ongoing complications. The next court date for Burke is scheduled for October 28th.
