President Barack Obama announced Michael Greco has been nominated to be the next United States Marshal for the Southern District of New York on Friday.

Greco currently serves as a lieutenant in the state police and would be the first Latino to hold the post. 

"Michael Greco has dedicated his career to protecting his fellow citizens," President Obama said in a statement issued by the White House. "He has displayed courage and persistence in the pursuit of justice, and I am honored to nominate him today to continue his selfless work as a U.S. Marshal."

The federal law enforcement agency tracks down fugitives, operates the federal witness program and protests federal judges. Nominees are first recommended by state senators, and approved by the U.S. Senate.

"Lt. Michael Greco's tremendous experience in law enforcement makes him an ideal U.S. Marshals for the Southern District of New York," U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer said in a statement.  "Michael has served his country with honor and excellence, having been a first responder on 9/11 and so much more in the realm of public service. I have no doubt he will make a first-rate U.S. Marshal for the Southern District of New York."

It was Schumer who recommended Greco for the post.

The Bronx-born Greco, with Puerto Rican ties, is a 32-year veteran with the New York State Police. 

"Throughout his distinguished career in law enforcement, Michael Greco has demonstrated his commitment to protecting and serving the people of New York State," State Senator Gustavo Rivera said in a statement. "I am very proud that a fellow Bronxite has been nominated to be the first Latino to hold the position of U.S. Marshal for the Southern District of New York. His extensive experience and commitment to the public will be an invaluable asset to the U.S. Marshals Service and the Southern District of New York." 

Lt. Greco has worked his way through the ranks of the New York State Police beginning as trooper, sergeant, station commander, investigator, senior investigator and lieutenant. During his tenures as investigator, he was transferred to the elite New York Drug Enforcement Task Force in New York City, working on many high-profile cases investigating drug-related homicides and violent crimes. In his current position, Lt. Greco serves at the New York State Police's interagency liaison in New York City. During his career, his work has been recognized through numerous awards and citations including eight Superintendent's Commendations, the Drug Enforcement Administration's "Award of Honor" and the NAACP's "Unsung Hero" Humanitarian Award.

If confirmed, he would be one of 94 U.S. marshals who oversee over 3,000 deputy marshals and investigators. The agency is the nation's oldest federal law enforcement agency.

Lt. Greco lives in Rockland County with his wife and four children. He received his associate's degree in 2012 from Excelsior College.