Zuhoski named Southold’s ‘cop of the year’

Southold police officer Steven Zuhoski has been honored as Southold’s police officer of the year for his role in initiating an investigation into the illegal sale of prescription drugs.
Officer Zuhoski, a 15-year member of the department, was recognized for his work during the 42nd annual police awards ceremony held by the Southampton Town Kiwanis Club Friday night at Vineyard Caterers in Aquebogue.
Officer Zuhoski, who was a Marine before joining the Southold police force, is consistently among the department’s leaders in total arrests and specifically driving while intoxicated charges said Chief Martin Flatley.
“Tonight he is being cited for self-initiating an investigation into the illegal dispensing of prescription drug medications by pharmacists in Eastern Suffolk,” Chief Flatley said.
“In May of this past year, Officer Zuhoski developed information that a pharmacist was dispensing prescription medications to virtually anyone who would walk into the street without a prescription for cash,” said the chief.
Officer Zuhoski was able to gain information about the ongoing sale of hydrocodone pills and other controlled substances for cash from the pharmacy, said the chief.That led to an investigation involving the county police narcotics bureau and the U.S. District Attorney in which “a successful conclusion was attained,” the chief said.
The pharmacist in question, whom he did not identify, will either surrender his license to practice or face criminal charges, said Mr. Flatley, adding that it appears the man will surrender his licenses.