WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) issued the following statement after the Shelby Police Department announced the death of Shelby K-9 Officer Tim Brackeen, who died as a result of injuries sustained in the line of duty over the weekend:

“Today’s news is an absolute tragedy, and Susan and I extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Officer Tim Brackeen, the city of Shelby, and our state’s dedicated law enforcement community. Officer Brackeen courageously risked his life in order to bring a wanted suspect to justice and protect the community of Shelby. In doing so, he made the ultimate sacrifice, a sacrifice we will never come close to repaying.

“We can never forget about the debt of gratitude we also owe to the parents, spouses, and children of our law enforcement officers, family members who are forced accept the reality of the tremendous danger that confronts their loved ones every single day they go to work.

“I join North Carolinians in praying for Officer Brackeen’s wife and daughter, and for the safety of the thousands of brave men and women in blue who keep North Carolina’s communities safe.” 

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