Every day, I put on my uniform in South Florida, knowing I might not come home. That’s the reality of policing in America today for all of my brothers and sisters in law enforcement. But it’s not just the inherent dangers of the job—car chases, violent criminals, and responding to active threats. It’s the disturbing trend of officers being deliberately targeted for attack simply because they wear the badge. This is why Congress must act now and pass the Protect and Serve Act, which would create a federal offense for those who intentionally commit violence against law enforcement officers.
For too long, we’ve watched as criminals have become emboldened, fueled by anti-police rhetoric that dehumanizes those of us who serve. I’ve seen it firsthand in Florida and all over this country—ambush attacks on officers, drive-by shootings targeting patrol cars, and violent criminals actively seeking to harm those sworn to uphold the law.
The numbers don’t lie. According to FBI statistics, law enforcement officer deaths and assaults have surged in recent years, with many of these attacks being premeditated. This isn’t just a crisis—it’s an all-out war on police.
The Protect and Serve Act is more than just another piece of legislation. It’s a vital statement from our federal government that attacks on law enforcement will not be tolerated. The bill would create a new federal offense for knowingly causing serious bodily injury to a law enforcement officer. In cases where the crime results in death, a life sentence could be imposed.
This isn’t about giving cops special treatment; it’s about acknowledging that when criminals target officers, they are attacking the rule of law itself.
Some argue that states already have laws to protect officers and punish violent offenders. But here’s the problem: state-level protections are inconsistent. Florida has strong laws, but what about officers in states where radical prosecutors refuse to enforce them?
The Protect and Serve Act ensures that justice is served regardless of jurisdiction, sending a clear message that violence against police is a national issue, not just a local concern.
I’ve heard the critics claim this law isn’t needed, that police officers aren’t truly at risk. To them, I say: Walk a shift in our shoes. Ride along in our patrol car in the middle of the night. Answer a domestic violence call where a suspect has nothing to lose. Stand at the scene of a crime when a crowd starts to turn against you.
Every officer knows the feeling of being a target. Every officer knows a brother or sister in blue who has been attacked simply for wearing the uniform.
When criminals believe they can attack officers with impunity, it doesn’t just put cops in danger—it emboldens lawlessness, making communities less safe for everyone.
The Protect and Serve Act doesn’t eliminate the risks of policing. But it sends a powerful message that attacking law enforcement officers is attacking the foundation of public safety itself.
It gives prosecutors the tools to hold violent criminals accountable, no matter where they are. It ensures that officers who make the ultimate sacrifice are honored with more than just words, but with real legal consequences for those who seek to harm them.
I love my job. I love serving my community. I took an oath to protect and serve, knowing the risks that come with it. But I shouldn’t have to accept that being ambushed or executed in cold blood is just part of the job.
Congress has the power to make a difference. It’s time to stand with law enforcement, to back the men and women who keep our communities safe, and to send a clear message: If you target police officers, you will face federal justice.
I implore Congress to pass the Protect and Serve Act before another officer’s name is added to the memorial wall.
Andrew LaFramboise is an active Police Officer, and serves as the District Director of the Florida State Lodge Fraternal Order of Police in Broward, Hendry and Collier Counties. He is also the President of the Hollywood Fraternal Order of Police.
