Torres Statement on Dallas Attack and Police Involved Shootings
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Rep. Norma Torres (D-Pomona) issued the following statement in response to the recent attack on 11 Dallas police officers, and the police involved shootings of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile:
“As the mother of a police officer, I was shocked and saddened by the ambush in Dallas last night that took the lives of five police officers during an otherwise peaceful demonstration. There is no excuse for this kind of violence - ever.
The police shootings of this past week were a horrific reminder that there are systemic issues within law enforcement, and those are issues that we must work as a nation to solve. Last night’s attack should not be a reflection on the thousands who have peacefully taken to the streets to demand change.
During my time as a 911 dispatcher for LAPD and as a Mayor and local official, I had the honor of working with many dedicated police officers who were committed to building ties with the community and making their neighborhoods better for everyone. The actions of a few should not diminish the hard work and sacrifices of all of the men and women who put their lives on the line to keep us safe.
We cannot function as a society if the community fears law enforcement nor if law enforcement fears the people they are sworn to protect. Passions are running high on every side of this issue, but now is a time for calm, for healing, and for peace. Let us listen to one another, respect one another, and work together to make sure that every American, regardless of race, creed, or line of work, can live a life free of hate and violence.”
Rep. Torres represents California’s 35th congressional district. She is currently a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security and previously worked for 17 years as a 911 dispatcher for the Los Angeles Police Department.
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