[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 2]
[House]
[Page 1772]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING OFFICER CHRISTOPHER RIDLEY

  (Mr. ENGEL asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, nearly 2 weeks ago Officer Christopher 
Ridley, age 23, of the Mount Vernon New York Police Department saw a 
street scuffle outside a county social services building in White 
Plains, New York. While off duty and in plain clothes, he drew his 
service weapon and attempted to break up the fight.
  Unfortunately, officers from the Westchester County police also came 
upon the scuffle and tragically and mistakenly fired on Officer Ridley, 
who was killed.
  Last week I attended the wake and funeral of Officer Ridley in the 
City of Mount Vernon, which is in my congressional district. Hundreds 
of local residents, police, and others from throughout the area turned 
out to pay their final respects. My heart goes out to Officer Ridley 
and his family by this terrible tragedy. One of our finest was struck 
down at a very young age, which is around the age of two of my 
children.
  The investigation into the shooting has begun, but the life of a 
brave 23-year-old is already taken. I ask my colleagues to remember 
Officer Ridley, who was posthumously promoted to detective, and also 
remember so many others for the brave sacrifice they make each and 
every day protecting us and our communities.
  We must always remember those in law enforcement for the difficult 
job they are called to do each and every day.
  May Detective Ridley always be remembered for his brave commitment to 
maintaining the peace and keeping us safe.

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