Mike Doyle: “Whether in the national spotlight or in our hometown, attempts to derail law enforcement investigations and influence…”

“Whether in the national spotlight or in our hometown, attempts to derail law enforcement investigations and influence judicial decisions through coercion is increasingly becoming the criminal's preferred line of defense. No longer is the arm of intimidation restricting itself to organized crime. When individuals employ this type of behavior in a small or close knit community, the effect of the manipulation can literally freeze that neighborhood's sense of community in its tracks. When individuals successfully exercise intimidation in the courtroom, we are in danger of knowingly forfeiting an inalienable right; the right to a fair trial. I realize the limited effect deterrents such as the provisions of H.R. 3120 can have if they are not enforced. It is my hope however, that the message of H.R. 3120 will bolster law enforcement's efforts and will break through to individuals who might otherwise resort to witness and jury tampering tactics. It is also my hope that this legislation will sound a voice of support and encouragement to individuals who are a witness to, or victim of crime.”