Branstad, Reynolds Release Further Statements Praising Law Enforcement Officials for Actions in Apprehending Shooting Suspect
(DES MOINES) – Today, Gov. Branstad and Lt. Gov. Reynolds released further statements today expressing sorrow for the two police officers who were murdered earlier this morning and praised state and local officials for their actions in apprehending the suspect.
“Earlier this morning, like Iowans across our state, I woke to the tragic news of the horrific murders of Sgt. Beminio and Officer. Martin. I struggle to fully express the sorrow and sadness I feel for the families of our fallen officers, their departments, and their communities. The thoughts and prayers of Chris and I go out to the families of these officers and to those who served beside them.
I am thankful for the swift arrest of the suspect and the joint efforts of state and local officials to make the arrest possible. I have asked the Department of Public Safety to assist local officials with the investigation if needed. State public safety officials stand ready to see justice served and safety maintained.
As I said this morning, an attack on our public safety officers is an attack on the public safety of all Iowans. Our state and our law enforcement community are hurting right now. Today is a time for mourning. Today is also a time to come together, as Iowans always do, in support of these fallen officers, their families, and all those working to protect and serve in our state.” --Gov. Terry Branstad
“Like so many, I was shocked and saddened to learn of the murders of Sgt. Beminio and Officer Martin. First and foremost, my family and I offer our prayers for the victims’ families and all of our law enforcement community. We mourn these heartbreaking losses.
I am also reminded of the job our law enforcement officers are asked to perform day in and day out and how valiantly they do so. I also join Gov. Branstad in applauding the swift work of state and local law enforcement in the apprehension of the suspect.
Today’s devastating news will undoubtedly affect all Iowans. The coming days will be difficult. I want our law enforcement community to know we stand with you, value your service for us, and you have our unwavering support. I hope everyone will keep the victims and their families in their prayers and support our law enforcement community through this trying time.” --Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds
(DES MOINES) – Earlier today, Ben Hammes, Communications Director for Gov. Terry Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds released the following statement in regards to the early morning shootings involving 2 police officers:
“The governor and lt. governor have been alerted to the attacks on law enforcement this morning. Shortly after the shootings, our office was briefed by the Department of Public Safety (DPS) on the shootings. DPS is working hand in hand with local law enforcement in the investigation. We will continue monitoring and working with law enforcement in the interest of public safety.
An attack on public safety officers is an attack on the public safety of all Iowans. We call on Iowans to support our law enforcement officials in bringing this suspect to justice. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the police officers who were tragically killed in the line of duty as well as the officers who continue to put themselves in harm’s way.”
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