Senator Golden Unholsters on Cop Killers

Senator Martin J. Golden (R-C, Brooklyn), ranking member of the Senate Crime Victims, Crime and Corrections Committee, has introduced legislation which would reinstate the death penalty for the intentional murder of a police officer. The bill (S.2747) is carried by Assemblywoman Destito in the Assembly.

“We are sending the wrong message by not having a death penalty on the books for those who intentionally kill a police officer, peace officer or an employee of the Department of Corrections. As a State we need to stand and say that if you kill a member of law enforcement, there will be sure, swift and severe punishment,” said Senator Golden.

Senator Golden, a former New York City Police Officer, and long time sponsor of legislation which would reinstate the death penalty for individuals convicted of killing a police officer, feels that this measure would provide for a safer environment for those who put their lives at risk everyday on our streets and in our jails and prisons.

“By not having a cop-killer death penalty law on the books, we are sending criminals, and police officers, the wrong message. We are doing a disservice to all the men and women who put their lives on the line every day to protect us, and telling murderers that it doesn’t matter who you kill,” continued Senator Golden.

“When you consider the changes that the Governor, Senate Majority and Assembly have been making in the areas of public safety, the need for this bill is further highlighted. They are releasing violent criminals, stripping away New York’s anti-drug measures, and closing prisons. These are not just mistakes -- we are moving in a deadly direction. It is only a matter of time before a law-abiding citizen is killed. By allowing those who murder police officers in cold blood to merely go to jail, everyone’s life is at risk,” concluded Senator Golden.