Nebraska Panhandle News

U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) recently emphasized his commitment to supporting law enforcement in Nebraska and nationwide during a press call held as part of National Police Week. He expressed gratitude towards police officers and commemorated Officer Ross Bartlett, who died in the line of duty in 2024.

"Officers across Nebraska work hard to prevent crime and protect families," said Ricketts. "They face danger, act fast, and serve with courage. I'm fighting to give them the tools and resources they need."

Ricketts is cosponsoring the Thin Blue Line Act, which aims to increase penalties for those targeting law enforcement officers. "This bill would increase penalties for criminals who target law enforcement officers," he continued. "It also would provide new tools for officers to protect themselves."

The senator paid tribute to Officer Ross Bartlett, saying, "This year's Police Week resolution honors Nebraskan Ross Bartlett. He was killed in 2024 when his patrol car was struck by another vehicle as he was conducting a traffic stop."

Ricketts highlighted the achievements of Nebraska's police forces, noting that Omaha has maintained a 100% homicide clearance rate over the past two years while witnessing a decrease in murder rates annually.

During his tenure as governor, Ricketts implemented measures such as retention bonuses and education benefits for law enforcement officers. He invested significantly in training facilities and upgraded state patrol laboratories.

Ricketts criticized what he described as ineffective border policies by the Biden administration but praised local efforts against drug trafficking. "In my last year as governor, state troopers confiscated two times as much methamphetamine, three times as much fentanyl, and ten times as much cocaine," he stated.

The senator supports legislation aimed at securing borders and reducing drug-related crimes. He mentioned collaborating with President Trump on these issues: "We passed the HALT Fentanyl Act."

Additionally, Ricketts addressed recent legislative actions reversing regulations on digital consumer payment applications following an effort led by him in the Senate: "I am happy President Trump signed my resolution into law to reverse this regulation."