NAPO Supports Resolution Calling for Extradition of Joanne Chesimard

June 7, 2019

Senators Bob Menendez (D-NJ) and Marco Rubio (R-FL) introduced a resolution (S.Res. 232) calling on the immediate extradition to the United States of convicted violent felons and cop-killers like Joanne Chesimard from Cuba. While non-binding, the resolution expresses the position that the Administration must do everything in its power to extradite violent criminals and cop-killers from Cuba to ensure that these felons face justice and to bring peace to the families of those who lost their lives.

Joanne Chesimard is the first woman to be added to the FBI’s most wanted terrorist list for her role in the cold-blooded killing of New Jersey State Trooper Werner Foerster in 1973. The fact that she – and violent felons like her – are living free in Cuba is an affront to the men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting our communities as law enforcement officers – above all to the family and friends of police officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Further, the extradition of violent criminals and cop-killers, like Chesimard, from the countries harboring them is an important component of increasing protections for officers. A violent criminal will not fear repercussions for killing an officer if they know they can flee to Cuba and live a full and free life there, avoiding justice.  The government must go after these violent killers, not only to show we take our laws against killing officers seriously, but so that they serve time for what they have done. 

NAPO has long called for the extradition of cop-killers from the countries harboring them and we stand with Senators Menendez and Rubio in their call for the immediate expulsion of Joanne Chesimard – and other violent fugitives like her – from Cuba.  Please join us in supporting S. Res. 232.

If you have any questions, please contact Andy Edmiston at aedmiston@napo.org.