Appellate Division Presiding Justice Hector LaSalle Visits Brentwood High School

By George Mcgregor Last updated Mar 24, 2026

Members of New York’s Unified Court System visit the Brentwood High School (L-R): Lieutenant James Martinez, Associate Court Clerk Crystal Douglas, Court Officer Paul McGlynn, Senior Court Clerk Jessica Williams, Presiding Justice of the Appellate Division, Second Department, Hon. Hector LaSalle, Secretary to Presiding Justice LaSalle Michelle Garcia, Court Officer Anthony Arroyo, Suffolk County District Administrative Judge Hon. Andrew Crecca

BRENTWOOD, NY – The Suffolk County Courts are pleased to share that Hon. Hector D. LaSalle, Presiding Justice of New York’s Appellate Division for the Second Department, held a special visit with students at Brentwood High School – his alma mater – this morning in the school’s Sonderling Auditorium. Justice LaSalle was accompanied by varied members of the New York Unified Court System, including Suffolk County’s District Administrative Judge, Hon. Andrew A. Crecca, who delivered welcoming remarks to open the program.

Justice LaSalle shares anecdotes from his professional journey as Lieutenant Martinez and Associate Court Clerk Douglas look on. Photo credit: Julia Carpenter, NY Unified Court System

Designed as an engaging panel discussion, the program featured Justice LaSalle as moderator alongside fellow court representatives: Secretary to Justice LaSalle Michelle Garcia, Senior Court Clerk Jessica Williams, Associate Court Clerk Crystal Douglas, Court Office Paul McGlynn, Court Officer Anthony Arroyo, and Lieutenant James Martinez – all proud alumni of Brentwood High School. All hailing from the same roots, the panelists shared insights into their professional journeys, discussed the wide range of careers within the court system, and encouraged students to consider paths in public service and the law.

District Administrative Judge Crecca gives welcoming remarks to start the court’s presentation, as Justice LaSalle, Lieutenant Martinez, and Associate Court Clerk Douglas look on. Photo credit: Julia Carpenter, NY Unified Court System.

Justice LaSalle reflected on his own experience as a Brentwood High School student and the importance of perseverance and self-belief.

“Never forget where you come from,” he told the students. “Your background is your strength, and it is something to be proud of. Each of you has value, and each of you has the ability to succeed – no matter the path you choose.”

Justice LaSalle fields a question from a student on behalf of the court panel. Photo credit: Julia Carpenter, NY Unified Court System.

In attendance for the inspiring event was Brentwood Schools Superintendent Wanda Ortiz. The program concluded with a highly active and engaging question-and-answer session, during which students had the opportunity to interact directly with the panelists. Following the discussion, members of the court handed out complimentary giveaways on behalf of the New York State Unified Court System.

Justices LaSalle and Crecca talk with students after the court’s presentation. Photo credit: Julia Carpenter, NY Unified Court System.

The visit highlighted the Unified Court System’s continued commitment to community outreach and education, inspiring students to recognize their potential and explore future opportunities within the justice system.