[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 74 (Thursday, May 23, 1996)]
[Senate]
[Page S5621]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         TRIBUTE TO JOHN LIEBENSTEIN, SLAIN RICE COUNTY DEPUTY

 Mr. WELLSTONE. Mr. President, I rise to pay tribute to a very 
brave man, to Deputy John Liebenstein, 40, a nine year member of the 
Rice County Sheriff's Department in Minnesota.
  Deputy Liebenstein sacrificed his life on May 3, 1996 in the line of 
duty. He was killed when a suspect, allegedly driving a stolen car, 
rammed his unmarked squad car on a freeway exit, following a high speed 
chase by police over forty miles through three counties.
  It is a tragedy when any policeman falls in the line of duty. 
However, Deputy Liebenstein's untimely death had an immediate impact on 
the citizens of his tightly-knit Minnesota community.
  John was a fine law enforcement officer who dedicated his life to 
defending the peace. Therefore, it was fitting when Governor Arne 
Carlson ordered all state flags to be lowered to half-staff in his 
honor.
  Deputy John Liebenstein was also a loving husband, and a wonderful 
father. I extend my deepest, most heartfelt sympathy to his devoted 
wife, Jean and his three children.
  He leaves a rich legacy of protecting the lives and property of his 
fellow citizens, and we will never forget this gallant man.

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