Ex-Chicagoland police chief wants cop murder to be federal crime: ‘Attacks on police officers’ up since 2020

A former police chief from Chicagoland is calling for violent ambushes and murders of on-duty police officers to be punishable as federal crimes. Retired Riverside Police Chief Tom Weitzel expressed concern over the rising trend of ambush attacks on police officers, noting that such incidents have become alarmingly common over the past few years.

Weitzel highlighted the disturbing tactics used in these attacks, such as officers being shot while sitting in their squad cars or responding to fake 911 calls designed to lure them into dangerous situations. He emphasized the need for federal legislation to address these crimes, pointing out that the current laws only allow for federal penalties in specific circumstances.

While some states have laws in place to address the murder of police officers, Weitzel stressed the importance of uniformity in prosecuting and investigating these cases across the country. He called for a federal law that would make killing a police officer in any state a felony, ensuring that perpetrators face appropriate consequences for their actions.

Weitzel shared his personal experience of surviving an ambush shooting during his time as a police officer, underscoring the need for better protection and justice for law enforcement personnel. He has reached out to lawmakers and administrations in the past, with limited success, but remains hopeful that President-elect Donald Trump will prioritize this issue.

The FBI has reported a significant increase in officer fatalities nationwide in recent years, with nearly 200 officers killed in felonious acts. In Chicago, several police officers lost their lives in the line of duty last year, highlighting the urgent need for stronger protections and accountability measures.

Weitzel believes that President Trump, who has expressed support for law enforcement and a commitment to public safety, is in a prime position to push for legislative changes to better protect police officers. He has urged the Trump administration to consider his proposal and take action to address this pressing issue.

As efforts to address violence against police officers continue, it is crucial to prioritize the safety and well-being of law enforcement personnel who risk their lives to protect their communities. By implementing federal measures to deter and punish those who target police officers, we can send a clear message that such crimes will not be tolerated.