Alan Grayson: “What I am saying is not so much a question of whether the equipment is being occasionally misused. The question really…”

“What I am saying is not so much a question of whether the equipment is being occasionally misused. The question really has become whether it is ever properly used. Can any of the gentlemen here tonight or anyone else identify a single act of terrorism that was thwarted by handing police officers helicopters that are militarized, bombs, and all sorts of gear that you would only expect to see on the battlefield? In fact, I would venture to say that the only examples we can come up with for the actual use of these objects is the misuse of these objects, the examples that I gave that were pointed out in national media. These weapons are not being used to defeat terrorism on our streets. Where is the terrorism on our streets? Instead, these weapons are being used to arrest barbers and to terrorize the general population. In fact, one may venture to say that the weapons are often used by a majority to terrorize a minority. Certainly, we know of many cases--both recent and in the deep, dark past--where police have used their weapons improperly for the sake of brutality. Now, it used to be that they could only use billy clubs or guns. Now, they can use helicopters and bombs. Before long, I suppose, given the logic propounded by my colleagues, they will be able to deploy nuclear weapons. That is not an America that I want to live in. I respectfully submit that this amendment deserves support. We are not cutting off the use of any equipment that is already in the field.…”