By Bob Katzen

This bill (H 3769) gives prosecutors the option to seek the death penalty for criminals who target and murder police officers solely because they wear the badge.

“We have seen these horrendous execution style murders happen throughout our nation and providing prosecutors this additional layer of punishment will hopefully serve as a deterrent—and more importantly send the message to our public safety officers that we have their back,” said the bill’s sponsor Rep. Shawn Dooley (R-Norfolk).

“Given the anti-police sentiments expressed this year by many members of the Legislature, I was unfortunately not surprised by this bill being sent to study. As a matter of fact, I was surprised it stayed in play as long as it did. I will definitely refile this next session as I feel this is an important discussion to have and I hope it can be brought to the floor for actual debate as opposed to being swept aside by being attached to a bogus study order.”