Yet Another Officer Down; the 119th Congress; New Police Legislation

And some feel-good stuff

Allan Reddins, a detective with the Oak Park Police Department, lost his life just one day after Thanksgiving while responding to a call of an armed suspect. (Oak Park is an adjoining Chicago suburb.)

Life will never be the same for those who loved and worked with Detective Reddins and other officers who are killed. It’s a national tragedy. And an outrage.

Oak Park PD’s X page is filled with condolences from well-intended people, many rightfully outraged that police officers keep getting killed. How do we stop this?, some ask. It’s an excellent question.

I feel their frustration. Not nearly enough is being done, at least at the legislative level, to protect our heroes. As we contended with (and continue to deal with) a national public safety emergency, solid bills introduced in the 118th Congress collected dust.

Heading into 2025, I’m confident that we can finally get the Protect and Serve Act and other pro-law enforcement legislation passed.

Some people have voiced concerns about the slim House majority Republicans will hold. Keep in mind that 11 of the 16 Democrat members of Congress who co-sponsored H.R. 743 in the 118th Congress will retain their seats. I have reason to believe that they -and perhaps some of their new colleagues- will again support this critical bill.

While we’re indeed in an optimal starting position, nothing is guaranteed. Our window of opportunity is also relatively small (think mid-terms), so we need to work quickly. It’s imperative that when the time comes for meaningful bills to be introduced, that each of us become a citizen lobbyist.

Legislation, lobbying, and minutiae isn’t sexy or always exciting. Understood. It is, however, what’s required if we’re to stop the carnage. In the coming year, I will be asking all of you to make your voices heard when and where it counts. Will you please heed the call?

Legislation Updates

U.S. Park Police Modernization Act (H.R. 9928)

Local police departments aren’t the only law enforcement agencies hemorrhaging experienced cops. The U.S. Park Police (USPP), tasked with safeguarding our nation’s monuments and landmarks, is also facing a staffing crisis.

It’s a scenario that has placed USPP officers, civilians, and our treasured landmarks at risk. This past summer, if you recall, large-scale demonstrations escalated in Washington, D.C., where protesters vandalized national landmarks, burned U.S. flags, and assaulted officers. Because of inadequate staffing, officers were reportedly unable to make the necessary arrests to restore order.

WW11 Memorial in Washington, DC, one of our nation’s most treasured landmarks

Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) had the foresight to introduce the U.S. Park Police Modernization Act (H.R. 9928) last month in response. This bill reduces the time between, and number of, pay grades, allowing officers to be promoted and receive pay raises more expeditiously. This would make it easier for the USPP to retain and recruit qualified officers.

It’s a bill I’m closely watching and expect to be re-introduced in the 119th Congress.

Police Officer Self-Defense Protection Act

The National Police Association (NPA) recently drafted the Police Officer Self-Defense Protection Act, a federal bill designed to protect police officers from rogue district attorneys. The bill would provide officers with immunity from local prosecution when justified self-defense criteria are met.

Once the new Congress is organized, NPA will find a sponsor.

At the National Law Enforcement Museum in Washington, DC. A must-see the next time you’re in our nation’s capital

Police Do Much More Than Make Arrests

There are times when a police officer may be the only trustworthy person in someone’s life. From protecting homeless people to guiding youth from broken homes, cops do more for our communities than I think most people realize.

Here’s a touching story of someone whose life trajectory changed for the positive because a police officer took the time to care.

And these are the men and women some want to defund and demoralize???

Parting Thoughts

Recently I received a letter from the surviving family of Frank Connor, co-namesake of the Frank Connor and Trooper Werner Foerster Justice Act.

It reads,

“Paula Fitzsimons,

Our family sincerely thank you and the National Police Association for Endorsing the Frank Connor and Trooper Werner Foerster Justice Act (S.5117). Although nothing will bring Frank back we are honored that his name will be associated with the deportation to the United States of fugitive's who have committed crimes in the United States and are currently granted asylum in Cuba. A special thank you to Senator Marco Rubio who introduced this Federal Bill

Sincerely, Mary Connor Tully, sons Tom and Joe Connor, precious grand children Frank,Kevin,Kathleen, William”

This is the kind of act that makes me feel like this fight is worth it, and that I’m right where I need to be. This holiday season, I’m grateful for being in a position where I’m able to serve and make a difference. That’s a big part of what life is about, right?

I’m also grateful to you for taking the time from your hectic lives to read about my work. It goes without saying, I stand in gratitude to the men and women who are dedicated to protecting our communities.

Thanks, as always. : )

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For the Blue is a solutions-based initiative. I’m just an American patriot asking questions. I don’t work with any political party and I answer to nobody. For me, the health of the nation, due process (including for police officers), the rule of law, and respect for individual liberties, will always transcend party affiliation. I welcome your thoughts, even if you disagree; though personal attacks will be ignored. You can reach me at fortheblue@substack.com.