Hundreds support police during Long Island ‘Back the Blue’ rally

Hundreds of people turned out on Long Island on Monday to voice support for police — holding up signs declaring “Back the Blue” amid weeks of anti-cop protests across the nation in the aftermath of George Floyd’s death, according to a report.

The throng of up to 500 people, most of whom did not wear face masks, lined Route 347 in Port Jefferson, near the site of a Black Lives Matter protest held about three weeks ago, Newsday reported.

Speakers at the rally condemned what they described as an atmosphere of anti-law enforcement sentiment since the black man died after being pinned under the knee of white Minneapolis cop Derek Chauvin.

Event organizer Jonathan Stuart praised police for displaying everyday acts of heroism even as they face a backlash and allegations of racism.

“We know your job is tough,” the 29-year-old gym owner told the crowd. “We know you have all Americans’ backs, and we have yours. … Standing up here is hard, being here is hard, but we are doing what must be done.”

During the raucous rally, participants waved US flags and black-and-white banners with blue stripes denoting the Blue Lives Matter movement.

Some wore or carried hats, shirts, sings and flags showing support for President Trump, whose name was chanted during the event.

“The stuff we’ve been hearing about in the news has been absolutely crazy,” former Suffolk County GOP chairman John Jay LaValle said. “We stand behind law enforcement to protect our families.”

Suffolk County Police Benevolent Association President Noel DiGerolamo said he had been skeptical that the rally would draw a large crowd.

“Thank you for proving me wrong. … I’m so glad to be here in Suffolk County, where the majority of people love their law enforcement,” he told the gathering.