Washington, DC – To honor the life, service and sacrifice of North Saint Paul, Minnesota Police Officer Richard Crittenden, Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04) today delivered the following Congressional Statement on the U.S. House Floor:

Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the life and public service of North St. Paul Police Officer Richard Crittenden who will be laid to rest tomorrow.

On Monday morning, Officer Crittenden was sent to respond to a domestic dispute call and he was killed protecting a woman from a man who had repeatedly abused her.

North Saint Paul is a wonderful community of 11,000 people where I raised my children and served on the city council.  To lose an officer in the line of duty is a tragedy for every resident.

On behalf of my constituents and all Minnesotans, I extend our prayers and deepest sympathies to Officer Crittenden’s wife, Christine, his children, and grand-children. Their loss is tremendous.

To North Saint Paul officials and residents, especially the members of the police department, I extend my condolences at this time of great pain and loss.

Officer Crittenden gave the ultimate sacrifice – his life – in the line of duty. His service as a peace officer was always respected, but his courage and sacrifice makes him a hero who shall always be remembered and honored.

I yield back the balance of my time.

Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-4) serves on the House Appropriations & Budget Committees.

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