[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 54 (Monday, April 11, 2016)]
[Senate]
[Page S1851]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING POLICE OFFICER SUSAN FARRELL

  Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, Des Moines police officer Susan Farrell 
had a lifelong dream of a career in law enforcement. At the young age 
of 30, she was living out her dream and on course for a bright career.
  But on March 26, just five months after joining the Des Moines Police 
Department, Officer Farrell lost her life in the line of duty along 
with fellow officer Carlos Puente-Morales when their vehicle was struck 
by another that was driving the wrong direction on Interstate 80 near 
Waukee. I wish to take a moment to celebrate Officer Farrell's life and 
service.
  Early on, growing up in the Des Moines area, Officer Farrell knew she 
wanted a career in public service. She studied criminal justice at 
Hamilton College and returned to her home town after graduating to 
begin living her dream. She worked as a detention officer in Polk 
County Jail for several years and was promoted to deputy just a year 
ago. She joined the Des Moines Police Department last fall and was 
excited to expand her education there.
  Along the way, Officer Farrell quickly earned the respect of her 
colleagues. She was someone they could always count on to help resolve 
situations. She also received awards of commendation and lifesaving for 
her work on the response team. One colleague summed up her abilities 
like this: ``There wasn't a situation where I wouldn't want Susan with 
me.''
  Officer Farrell will be greatly missed by her family and friends, as 
well as the Des Moines community that she worked to protect.
  I express my deepest sympathies to Officer Farrell's family, friends, 
and colleagues and my sincere gratitude for her service to our State 
and for her work to keep our communities safe.

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