This petition is written by a Patchogue 40 Thieves Drill Team Supporter and member of the Patchogue Community.

The Drill team was abruptly disbanded by the Patchogue Fire District Commisioners on April 23rd, 2024, at a regular District Meeting. This decision was made without prior warning, notice or stated.

The Thieves returned to the track in 2021 after more than a decade of absence, demonstrating commitment, determination and hard work.

The Team was primarily funded by generous contributions from Community members who believed in the Thieves. These donations, previously being put to good use, have been deemed valueless as a result of the dissolution of the Team.

The sudden disbandment left the team and supporters without any platform to discuss why this happened and what can be done to ensure team reinstatement. The lack of transparency is concerning.

The Forty Thieves play an important role in promoting teamwork, discipline and community spirit in Patchogue as well as in the Firehouse. The team represents all four of the individual companies that comprise the Fire Department. 

Please join me in calling upon the Patchogue Fire District to reinstate this Team immediately or provide clear reasons if they choose no to do so. The District representatives owe an explanation to the Team and the Community, especially those who have contributed financially or with their time and effort.

Please sign this petition if you believe in fairness, transparency in government, supporting local teams and building stronger communities