Violence Against Law Enforcement: Growing Concerns Ignited at New Committee Hearing
WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 26: Dallas Police Sergeant Demetrick Pennie greets Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) prior to the start of a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing entitled Law Enforcement Officer Safety: Protecting Those Who Protect and Serve on July 26, 2022 at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC. The hearing was held as part of a bipartisan effort to address violence against police officers and the safety of law enforcement. (Photo by Anna Rose Layden/Getty Images)
House Homeland Security Chairman Andrew Garbarino declared Wednesday that his first full committee hearing as the panel’s new leader will tackle a critical and escalating issue: rising violence against police officers. Citing security concerns, he emphasized that attacks on law enforcement have become widespread across local, state, and federal agencies.
“Why my first hearing,” Garbarino stated plainly in an interview with Newsmax’s “Wake Up America.” “We must focus on this increase of attacks on our men and women in blue. These officers are doing their jobs every day to protect us.”
He anticipates the hearing will present data showing a sharp upward trend in assaults against law enforcement personnel over recent years, describing it as a pervasive problem without limitation to any single region or specific agency type.
Garbarino also highlighted his intention to examine the potentially contributing role of inflammatory political discourse. “I hope this hearing underscores support for officers,” he noted, adding that they face ongoing threats and require heightened attention due to these challenges.
The committee’s objective is clear: to elevate law enforcement violence as a national security matter, ensuring federal recognition and policy consideration. Garbarino underscored the importance of reinforcing protections for personnel who are actively enforcing laws nationwide.
