Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representative Jodey Arrington (TX-19) released the following statement after a St. Louis man was sentenced to life in prison without parole for the murder of former Police Captain David Dorn, who was shot and killed during the 2020 riots.

“Captain David Dorn was a retired law enforcement officer who served his community with honor, courage, and selflessness. During the riots of 2020, Captain Dorn ran headlong into harm’s way with several other officers and was brutally murdered by the violent mob who was shooting guns, throwing rocks, and exploding fireworks in the faces of police officers. Until his last breath, Captain Dorn dedicated his life to serving his community and protecting his fellow man. His family can finally take comfort in knowing that justice has been served for Captain Dorn,” said Rep. Arrington.

“Unfortunately, two years after this horrific incident, our nation is still plagued by rampant violence and crime. Until local leaders enforce the law and hold criminals accountable, American families, like the Dorns, will continue to suffer unspeakable and unnecessary tragedies.”

Captain Dorn was killed by rioters while trying to defend a friend’s pawnshop. He served 38 years on the St. Louis police force and worked six years as police chief in Moline Acres until his retirement in 2014. 

In August 2020, Rep. Arrington introduced legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives to protect law enforcement, hold rioters accountable, and restore order amidst the ongoing violence in major cities across the country. One of those bills – H.R. 8031/The David Dorn Act of 2020 – doubles the maximum imprisonment for rioting in the U.S. code 18 USC Section 2101 and establishes a mandatory fine.

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