Back the Blue

This week, May 12th through May 18th, marks National Police Week. Everyday across North Missouri, law enforcement officials leave the comfort of their own homes to protect and serve their community, putting their life on the line for the people around them. For that, we should all be grateful and hold them in the highest regard. 

In spite of the courageous service of our officers, the Defund the Police movement has risen over the last several years, along with anti-police rhetoric. It’s despicable and a slap in the face to our brave men and women in blue across the country.

Even in North Missouri we have experienced terrible acts of violence against our law enforcement officers. Earlier this year, Officer Cody Allen was tragically killed when a gunman opened fire. Officer Jim Muhlbauer and his partner, K-9 Champ, were killed by a reckless driver who was going nearly 50 mph over the speed limit and ran a red light before hitting Muhlbauer’s patrol car. In January, a Missouri State Highway Patrol Officer was shot after a vehicle pursuit near Clarence. It’s just another reminder that our law enforcement officers never know what they are going to face day to day. It only takes an instant for a traffic stop, a parade, or serving a routine court notice to turn deadly.

Now more than ever, law enforcement officers need our support. This week, recognizing the vital role they play throughout our country, House of Representatives passed numerous bills supporting our brave law enforcement officers. The Law Enforcement Officer Safety Act (LEOSA) Reform Act expands an exemption to allow qualified active and retired law enforcement officers to carry firearms on state, local, and private property otherwise open to the public. The Detain and Deport Illegal Aliens Who Assault Cops Act requires Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to detain any illegal immigrant who has been charged with or convicted of assaulting a law enforcement officer. Finally, the Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act ensures adequate data collection to address the tragic rise in anti-police attacks.

“Back the blue” isn't just a phrase. Our law enforcement officers put their lives on the line daily and saying thanks is the least of what we can do. We must ensure our law enforcement, whether in our counties or cities, remain strong for the safety of our communities. I’m proud to stand in support of those who keep us safe each day.

Sincerely,

Sam Graves