U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) delivered a speech on the Senate floor to honor two Louisiana law enforcement officers who were shot in the line of duty on October 6 in Plaquemine, Louisiana. Captain Brett Stassi Jr. of the Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Office and Deputy Charles Riley were shot while attempting to arrest a suspect in connection with a sexual assault case at a courthouse building.
Deputy Riley, a six-year veteran of the department, husband, and father, died from his injuries. Captain Stassi remains in critical but stable condition after undergoing surgeries.
“Mr. President, a tragedy like this reminds us that law enforcement officers put their lives on the line for us every single day,” said Dr. Cassidy.
“Deputy Riley gave his life protecting our community,” continued Dr. Cassidy. “We pray for his close friends and loved ones—those here who grieve the loss of someone they look up to and will deeply miss.”
“We pray and hope for Stassi’s strength and full recovery—and for his wife and family,” continued Dr. Cassidy.
Cassidy also emphasized the risks law enforcement officers face and called for continued support for both officers’ families and the wider Plaquemine community. “The support we get from law enforcement—the willingness to put themselves in harm’s way—can never be repaid. We should support law enforcement, as well as those who are suffering in the wake of this tragedy.”
