Carson, Spartz Take Different Approaches to Honoring Police

WASHINGTON, D.C.--Two Indiana representatives spoke of the U.S. House floor during a special hour for National Police Week Wednesday. Both Andre Carson and Victoria Spartz chose to honor law enforcement officers. Carson also advocated for police reforms.
“Though nothing can bring back the lives that have been lost or ease the collective grief that we feel, we take comfort in knowing that we will never for get them for the sacrifices they made,” said Carson (D), a former police officer.
He mentioned specifically Indianapolis Metro Police Officer Breann Leath, shot and killed while responding to a domestic disturbance call in April 2020.
“She was 24 years old…a veteran of the National Guard, the mother of a young son and part of a family and a proud legacy of law enforcement,” he said. “She had her whole life and a great career ahead of her, only to have her life cut shot.”

Carson said he wanted to recognize all of the officers in his district, but that he would be remiss if he didn’t also recognize victims of police brutality.
“In Indianapolis alone and in communities across our country, the list grows longer each day,” he said. “We must honor their memory and commit to enacting reforms that save lives in the future.”
Carson said he believes the Senate should pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, which has been passed by the House.
“We want to provide police with better training and the right resources. We want to help police build stronger and healthier relationships with the communities they serve. We also want police to be able to focus on keeping the peace and relieve them of the many other duties they’re expected to do.”
During Spartz’s time speaking she honore Lawrence Detective Stacy Hinshaw, recently named Detective of the Year.

“During the year 2020 Det. Hinshaw worked over 119 cases, the vast majority involving complex child abuse and sexual assaults,” said Spartz (R). “Det. Hinshaw has developed an extensive network for support, resources for victims and partnerships with many community organizations and has been recognized by the FBI and US Attorney’s office for her work.”
National Police Week runs through Saturday.