State Senator Mike Regan | Pennsylvania
State Senator Mike Regan | Pennsylvania
On February 18, 2023, a Temple University police officer was shot and killed in Philadelphia. The suspect shot Officer Christopher David Fitzgerald multiple times before attempting to rob him. Officer Fitzgerald, aged 31, leaves behind a wife and four children.
In Pennsylvania, there has been an increase in attacks on law enforcement. In less than two months this year, seven officers have been killed nationwide, with three incidents occurring in Pennsylvania. Senator Mike Regan highlighted this issue, stating it is "absolutely unacceptable."
Current Pennsylvania law allows for the death penalty or life imprisonment for first-degree murder of a law enforcement officer. Senator Regan plans to propose legislation to remove the option of life imprisonment for such crimes. He stated his belief that "there should be no debate upon conviction of such a heinous and selfish crime."
Senator Regan expressed hope that Governor Josh Shapiro will prioritize the lives of law enforcement over those who commit murder. Governor Shapiro recently announced he would not issue execution warrants during his term and called for abolishing the death penalty, noting that “the outcome is irreversible.”
Senator Regan emphasized the need to support police officers during these violent times by advocating for changes in the criminal justice system.
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