North Charlotte Today

Senator Thom Tillis, along with a group of bipartisan senators, introduced the Protect and Serve Act, a legislation aimed at making knowingly causing or attempting to cause bodily injury to a law enforcement officer a federal crime. The bill has garnered support from various senators who believe in the importance of protecting those who protect our communities.

In a statement, Senator Tillis emphasized the need to hold those accountable who commit acts of violence against law enforcement officers, stating, “Those who commit senseless acts of violence against law enforcement officers must be held accountable for their actions.” He highlighted the bravery of law enforcement officers and the necessity for Congress to ensure their protection.

Senator Tom Cotton echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to increase penalties for criminals who target police officers, stating, “Our bill will help protect police by increasing penalties for the criminals who target them.”

Senator Lindsey Graham expressed his support for the legislation, emphasizing the importance of taking action to support law enforcement officers on the job, stating, “This bill would make it a federal crime to attack a police officer in the line of duty, in order to deter these types of attacks from occurring.”

Senator Joe Manchin emphasized the responsibility of Congress to protect law enforcement officers, stating, “I’m proud to introduce the bipartisan Protect and Serve Act to ensure individuals who commit or attempt to commit violence against these heroes are held accountable through harsher federal penalties.”

The Protect and Serve Act aims to address the increasing targeted attacks on law enforcement officers by giving federal prosecutors the tools they need to hold offenders accountable. The legislation would make it a federal crime to knowingly cause or attempt to cause bodily injury to a law enforcement officer, with offenders facing imprisonment for up to 10 years. If a death results from the offense, offenders could receive a life sentence.

Endorsed by various law enforcement organizations, including the Fraternal Order of Police, the Protect and Serve Act has received praise for its efforts to protect those who serve and protect our communities. Patrick Yoes, National President of the Fraternal Order of Police, expressed gratitude to Senator Tillis for leading the charge on the issue and looks forward to working towards the passage of the legislation.

The tragic events in Charlotte, North Carolina, served as a stark reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face daily. Bill Johnson, Executive Director of the National Association of Police Organizations, called on Congress to pass the Protect and Serve Act to ensure that those who commit heinous crimes against law enforcement officers are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

The Protect and Serve Act, if passed, would not only support federal law enforcement officers but also state and local officers in cases where federal jurisdiction can be established. This legislation underscores the importance of protecting those who risk their lives to uphold law and order in our communities.