House Committee on Homeland Security Chairman Andrew R. Garbarino addressed the growing issue of threats and violence against law enforcement officers during a hearing in Washington, D.C. The hearing examined what Garbarino described as a rise in anti-law-enforcement sentiment across the United States and its connection to an increase in threatening behavior and attacks on law enforcement personnel.
Garbarino began his statement by noting a recent incident in which two National Guard members were shot while on duty in Washington, D.C., resulting in the death of Specialist Sarah Beckstrom. He called for a moment of silence to honor her memory.
He expressed appreciation for Subcommittee Chairmen Guest and Pfluger, stating, "I want to extend my sincere appreciation to Subcommittee Chairmen Guest and Pfluger for their leadership in keeping this issue at the forefront of our Committee’s work. I am grateful to them for their efforts in helping to drive this conversation forward."
Garbarino highlighted concerns about rhetoric targeting law enforcement, saying, "Freedom of speech is a cornerstone of our democracy. But the line between legitimate criticism and outright incitement is growing thinner, and too often, that line is being crossed." He warned that portraying law enforcement as adversaries undermines public safety.
He cited several incidents nationwide as evidence of increasing hostility toward law enforcement. These included a September shooting involving ICE officers in Dallas, assaults on NYPD officers—with reported assaults up 63 percent over six years—and ambush-style attacks across Ohio, Kansas, New York, and Pennsylvania that resulted in multiple officer fatalities.
According to Garbarino, threats against ICE officers have escalated sharply since immigration enforcement activities increased. He referenced data from DHS indicating more assaults and death threats directed at these officers.
The chairman also discussed the impact of online rhetoric that he believes delegitimizes authority and encourages violence: "Much of this hostility is fueled by rhetoric that spreads rapidly online – rhetoric designed to delegitimize lawful authority and embolden violence against those who wear a badge."
Addressing criticisms of immigration enforcement operations under different administrations, Garbarino stated: "Critics have consistently portrayed immigration enforcement efforts like deportations as extreme or unprecedented. Yet, the facts tell a different story: under President Obama, more than 3 million individuals were formally removed over his two terms."
He noted bipartisan legislative efforts focused on supporting mental health resources for Department of Homeland Security (DHS) personnel: "I am proud to have worked in previous Congresses with Ranking Member Thompson on his legislation that would boost mental health and suicide prevention resources for DHS personnel, and I look forward to continuing that work with him now as chairman."
Garbarino emphasized that law enforcement officers are public servants who should be held accountable but must not be made targets because of their role: "Law enforcement personnel are public servants, not public figures. When taking the oath, they did not seek celebrity; they stepped forward to safeguard our nation and uphold the laws enacted by this body."
He concluded by reiterating support for law enforcement officials at all levels—federal, state, local—and called attention to memorials honoring fallen officers: "We are reminded of the dangers they face each year when names of fallen heroes are added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial here in Washington, D.C., which honors federal, state, local, and tribal officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice."
"To the brave men and women of law enforcement: you have our full respect and unwavering support. Thank you for your service," Garbarino said.
