Hon. Michael G. Oxley: “I rise to commend the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Justice for the peaceful resolution reached…”

“I rise to commend the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Justice for the peaceful resolution reached last Thursday in the armed standoff involving the so-called Montana Freemen who are charged with threatening public officials and other crimes. The potential for violence was high throughout this confrontation. The fact that the suspects surrendered without a shot being fired speaks well of FBI negotiations and the reforms instituted at DOJ for dealing with such crisis situations. I particularly note FBI Director Louis Freeh's personal oversight of the case and his determination to see the lessons of past standoffs institutionalized at the Bureau. Federal law enforcement is the target of a great deal of second-guessing when tragedies occur. They deserve recognition for their professionalism when a tense situation is resolved peacefully. Mr. Speaker, not every warrant can be executed without incident. That goes with the turf. All the more reason to commend the FBI for a job well done.”