[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 135 (Friday, December 8, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2223]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          PAYING TRIBUTE TO JEFFERSON COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE

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                        HON. THOMAS G. TANCREDO

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, December 8, 2006

  Mr. TANCREDO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer my praise for the 
heroic actions of several law enforcement agencies in Colorado. 
Authorities from the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Park County 
Sheriff's Office and Colorado State Patrol acted in a swift and 
competent manner during the hostage standoff at Platte Canyon High 
School in Bailey, Colorado on September 27, 2006.
  Mr. Speaker, these men and women risked their lives to help save 
students that had been taken hostage by an adult gunman. The situation 
sparked strong reminders of Columbine High School from April 20, 1999.
  Mr. Speaker, that day a young woman lost her life. As Emily Keyes 
escaped her captor, he shot and fatally wounded her. Her family has 
requested that this tribute be made to law enforcement. In my 
conversation with the family, they thankfully praised the Jefferson 
County Special Weapons and Tactics Regional Team for their actions. The 
family has since been in consistent communication with them and 
thankful for the role that they have played in the community.
  The Keyes family has also expressed gratefulness for Park County 
Sheriff Fred Wegener. He was the man who gave the go ahead that day to 
storm the classroom in an effort to save the lives of the remaining 
hostages. The Keyes' family has continued to honor their daughter since 
her tragic death. Her memorial and a charity bike ride have attracted 
thousands of supporters; a testament to what I'm certain was a 
wonderful and bright young woman.
  Mr. Speaker, while the events at Platte Canyon are tragic, the Keyes 
family has carried the memory of their daughter and support the actions 
made by law enforcement that day.

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