Suffolk County Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) recently joined forces with the Suffolk County Sheriff's office to offer new internet monitoring software that enables parents to protect their children against online sexual predators and cyber bullies.

43,000 copies of the software, named "Computer Cop," were purchased by the Sheriff's office at no cost to taxpayers and will be distributed free of charge to parents throughout Suffolk County. The software was purchased with funds seized from drug dealers and money launderers. Legislator Cooper's office is one of the locations where the software is available to the public.

The Computer Cop program captures full text from online chat rooms, emails and instant messages. The software can also check your computer for sexually explicit words, inappropriate pictures, and language promoting drug use. Even if a child tries to delete these items, Computer Cop is there to make sure you still see the information that was erased through its advanced yet simple to use technology.

Sheriff Vincent F. DeMarco says, "Parents are the first line of defense in the war against online sexual predators and cyber bullies. This program gives parents the tools they need to keep their children safe."

"As a father of five children, I know first-hand how difficult it can be to monitor kids' computer activities," states Legislator Cooper. " This new software will allow parents to keep a closer eye on their children's computer use to ensure their safety."

Laura Ahearn, Executive Director of Parents for Megan's Law, applauds the Computer Cop program. "Sheriff DeMarco and Legislator Cooper are taking a pro-active step to combat online victimization by providing parents with specific tools they can use to prevent their children from falling prey to sexual predators," says Ahearn.

Those interested in obtaining a copy of the Computer Cop software can call Legislator Cooper's office at (631) 854-4500. Copies can also be picked up at his office in Huntington Village, which is located at 50 Gerard Street, Suite 100.