Following the murder of Trooper Andrew Sperr last week, the New York State Troopers PBA has answered inquiries from the media regarding the tragedy. We have expressed our sadness and grief over Trooper Sperr’s death and offered condolences to his family and friends.

We have also made statements regarding the PBA’s support for Gov. George Pataki’s call to restore the death penalty for the murder of a police officer.

The tragic deaths of Trooper Andrew Sperr and New Hartford Police Officer Joe Corr last week underscore the need for the restoration of the death penalty for the murder of a police officer.

The safety of law enforcement officers is of the utmost importance as they risk their lives every day to serve and protect the residents of New York state. These heinous crimes against law enforcement officers this week show that current penalties, while a step in the right direction, are not enough of a deterrent to criminals.

“Trooper Sperr made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of public safety, and he died a hero,” said State Troopers PBA President Daniel M. De Federicis. “Tragically, it has taken the deaths of two brave law enforcement officers to bring renewed attention to the need for the restoration of the death penalty for the murder of a police officer. We thank Governor Pataki for his continued support of law enforcement, and we urge the Legislature to pass this measure now. The lives of New York State Troopers and law enforcement officers across the state are at stake.”

Several media outlets printed the PBA’s statements when reporting about the death penalty issue. One example, The Post-Standard newspaper of Syracuse, included the PBA in its story about this, which can be read by clicking on this link: http://www.syracuse.com/search/index.ssf?/base/news1/114137971823800.xml?syrnesreg&coll=1&thispage=2 .

PBA Treasurer & NCO-West Delegate Bob Hovey also spoke with a reporter from WNYT-Channel 13 in Albany. When you click on the link below, you can read the report posted on the television’s web site, as well as click on their video link to view the interview with Hovey.