FEBRUARY 18, 2004 CONTACT: JOHN BUCZEK
REFERENDUM TO REMOVE DEATH PENALTY BAN
Today, the Michigan Fraternal Order of Police whole-heartedly endorsed Representative Larry Julian’s resolution calling for a referendum to give voters the opportunity to remove the state constitution’s ban on capitol punishment for first-degree murder.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of Matt Bowens and Jennifer Fettig, the two Detroit police officers that were senselessly murdered. We also send our condolences to the families of the armored car guards that were ambushed last night,” said John Buczek Executive Director of the Michigan FOP.
“We stand firmly behind Matt Bowens father in calling his son’s killer a coward. It’s time for the people of Michigan to send a firm message to the perpetrators of these cold-blooded, senseless acts,” Buczek said. “ Anyone that willfully commits a cold blooded, premeditated murder needs to understand that he or she will forfeit their own life.”
“When terrorists struck the World Trade Center, we were outraged at the loss of innocent lives. We declared war on terror and took steps to make sure that it doesn’t happen again. We need to become just as outraged at these senseless murders on our streets. We need to show these cowards every human life has value and that to commit first degree murder could ultimately cost you your own.”
The Michigan Fraternal Order of Police is Michigan’s oldest and largest law enforcement organization. It is part of a national organization with over 300,000 members.