SPRINGFIELD – Illinois Fraternal Order of Police State Lodge President Chris Southwood issued the following statement regarding the ambush-style shootings that killed two Iowa police officers:
“The cowardly, evil, premeditated executions of two Iowa police officers cannot be tolerated. Those responsible should face the swiftest and most severe justice that our nation allows. The two fallen heroes made the ultimate sacrifice serving and protecting the communities they loved.”
“Our hearts, thoughts and prayers go to the families, friends and fellow officers who have suddenly and violently had their loved ones, friends and colleagues removed from their lives.”
“Illinois law enforcement officers will honor the memory of our fallen brothers in Iowa. Their ultimate sacrifice reminds us why we put on the badge every day - to make sure that cowardly criminals and evildoers are removed from our streets and the vast majority of good, honest citizens can enjoy living in our free society.”
The Fraternal Order of Police, founded in 1915, is the largest organization of sworn law enforcement officers in the United States. With a proud tradition of officers representing officers, the FOP is the most respected and most recognized police organization in the country. The Illinois FOP, chartered in 1963, is the second largest State Lodge, proudly representing more than 34,000 active duty and retired police officers - more than 10 percent of all FOP members nationwide. Visit www.ilfop.org for more information.
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