Central ND News

Senator Cramer expressed, “It is critical we Back the Blue in every way possible. The Protect and Serve Act will implement safeguards to defend those who dedicate their lives to serving and protecting our communities. We owe these heroes a debt of gratitude for their sacrifices and service, and Congress must honor that commitment.”

Senator Tillis stated, “Law enforcement officers in North Carolina and across the country are heroes who risk their lives every day to protect our communities. Those who commit senseless acts of violence against law enforcement officers must be held accountable for their actions, which is why I am proud to reintroduce this legislation that creates federal penalties for criminals who target law enforcement. They put their lives on the line to protect us, and we should do the work in Congress to protect them.”

In response to the alarming increase in officers being shot in the line of duty, U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer and Thom Tillis have cosponsored the Protect and Serve Act. The legislation aims to provide federal prosecutors with the necessary tools to hold individuals responsible for attacking or assaulting law enforcement officers.

The bill proposes to make it a federal crime to knowingly cause, or attempt to cause, bodily injury to a law enforcement officer. Offenders could face imprisonment for up to 10 years or even a life sentence if a death results from the offense or if the offense includes kidnapping, attempted kidnapping, or attempted murder.

Last year, the Protect and Serve Act received endorsements from various law enforcement organizations, including the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, Fraternal Order of Police, Major County Sheriffs of America, National Association of Police Organizations, and Southern States Police Benevolent Association.

Apart from Senators Cramer and Tillis, other cosponsors of the legislation include U.S. Senators Tom Cotton, Joe Manchin, John Hoeven, Susan Collins, Steve Daines, Lindsey Graham, John Cornyn, Ted Cruz, and Shelley Moore Capito.