Thompson, Correa, Thanedar Demand Answers from Kristi Noem on DHS Wanton Use of Supposed “Less-Lethal” Weapons in Communities
“It is clear that something is rotten at DHS”
(WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, Rep. Lou Correa (D-CA), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Border Security & Enforcement, and Rep. Shri Thanedar (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Oversight, Investigations & Accountability, sent a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem regarding the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) repeatedly permanently injuring and nearly killing innocent people on American streets with so-called “less-lethal” weapons — weapons that are neither likely nor intended to cause death or serious injury, such as batons, pepper spray, tear gas, and rubber bullets.
Recently, infamous – and recently demoted – Border Patrol leader Greg Bovino bragged about widely using these weapons – and targeting American cities. Similarly, a Federal judge in Minneapolis recently found that DHS officers and agents “gratuitously deploying chemical irritants at observers and protesters.”
“It is clear that something is rotten at DHS, and law enforcement are using force—including ‘less-lethal’ force—in ways that put everyone at risk,” the Ranking Members added.
“DHS’s lawless and aggressive enforcement operations throughout the country are proving just how dangerous less-lethal weapons can be, particularly when used improperly against those engaging in First Amendment activities.”
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