Attorney General Ashley Moody has expressed her support for the Thin Blue Line Act, a piece of legislation introduced by U.S. Representative Vern Buchanan and U.S. Senator Ted Cruz. The act aims to impose stricter penalties on individuals convicted of murdering or attempting to murder public-safety officers by classifying these acts as aggravating factors under the federal death penalty statute.
In her statement, Attorney General Moody emphasized the risks faced by law enforcement officers and highlighted the importance of supporting them through legislative measures. "Our law enforcement officers risk their lives to keep us safe. They pursue armed fugitives and confront dangerous criminals. We need to send a clear message that we have their backs by passing the Thin Blue Line Act," she stated, commending Congressman Buchanan and Senator Cruz for their efforts in sponsoring this legislation.
The proposed act seeks to enhance penalties for those who kill or attempt to kill first responders while they are performing their duties. By categorizing such acts as aggravating factors, it allows for more severe penalties under existing federal laws.
Attorney General Moody's commitment to supporting law enforcement is evident through various initiatives since she took office in 2019. Recently recognized as one of the “Got Your Six” National Champions of Law Enforcement by Police1, she has launched several programs aimed at fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and communities, addressing mental health challenges within the force, and recruiting new officers to Florida.
Among her notable actions are launching the Back the Blue campaign in 2019, being appointed to President Donald Trump’s Commission on Law Enforcement in 2020, starting a statewide crime reporting tip line (**TIPS), and initiating recruitment efforts like Be a Florida Hero.
Moody has also been involved in legislative support for bail reform alongside Governor Ron DeSantis in 2023 and introduced programs like Helping Heroes for opioid crisis response teams. Her ongoing efforts include working with state lawmakers on mental health support initiatives for first responders.
To learn more about the Thin Blue Line Act, further information is available online.