National Police Association Endorses Larry Henderson Act in Ohio

The National Police Association (NPA) has expressed strong support for the Larry Henderson Act (H.B. 372) through written testimony submitted to the Ohio House Judiciary Committee. This significant legislation is sponsored by Representatives Cindy Abrams and Phil Plummer and aims to ensure that individuals convicted of killing police officers and other first responders receive the maximum penalties under Ohio law.

In her testimony, NPA Legislative Director Paula Fitzsimmons emphasized the importance of this act in preventing further trauma to the families of fallen officers. “When a police officer is killed in the line of duty, their families, loved ones, and colleagues experience unimaginable grief,” Fitzsimmons stated. She highlighted that the pain is exacerbated when offenders become eligible for parole.

Under existing Ohio law, the death penalty or a life sentence can be imposed for the intentional killing of an officer. However, certain circumstances may still allow for parole eligibility. The Larry Henderson Act seeks to eliminate this possibility by mandating that courts impose either the death penalty or life without parole for such convictions. Additionally, the act extends these protections to prosecutors, first responders, and military personnel targeted due to their service.

Legislation Responds to Rising Violence Against Officers

This legislative initiative arrives in the context of increasing violence against law enforcement personnel. According to the FBI, a staggering 85,730 police officers were targeted in the United States last year, marking the highest number in over a decade. The NPA argues that the Larry Henderson Act represents both a moral and legal commitment to safeguarding those who protect the public.

Fitzsimmons remarked, “The Larry Henderson Act ensures that the full force of the law is applied to those who intentionally kill our nation’s protectors. Justice demands nothing less.” By supporting this measure, the NPA believes Ohio can strengthen public safety protections and convey a clear message that attacks on law enforcement will be met with serious consequences.

The NPA urges Ohio lawmakers to adopt the Larry Henderson Act, positioning it as a crucial step toward enhancing justice for the families of fallen officers. As the legislation moves forward, its proponents hope it will resonate as a definitive statement on the value of those who serve and protect communities across the state.

About the National Police Association: The NPA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting law enforcement through advocacy, education, and legal resources. For more information, visit NationalPolice.org.

Media Contact: Paula Fitzsimmons, +1 302-469-1765, [email protected]