Graves supports Patriot Act

U.S. Congressman Sam Graves recently voted to reauthorize the USA PATRIOT and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2005. Since its passage following the Sept. 11 attacks, the PATRIOT Act has played a key role in protecting innocent Americans from terrorists. Graves said the PATRIOT Act has been partly responsible for our safety.

“We need to give law enforcement all the tools they need to fight terrorists,” said Graves. “After Sept. 11 we decided to be proactive in detecting and disrupting terrorism. The PATRIOT Act has been a major part of that strategy.”

Many of the tools of the PATRIOT Act have been used for decades to fight organized crime and drug dealers. Specifically it allows law enforcement to conduct surveillance against more terrorism suspects, including those who are trained to evade detection. It also allows agents to conduct investigations without tipping off terrorists.

“Many of these provisions are ordinary, but they are necessary to pursue those who would do us harm,” said Graves. “This will allow our law enforcement to respond before terrorism happens.”

Since 9/11 the PATRIOT Act has assisted the United States in identifying over 150 terrorist threats and cells, worldwide more than 3,000 operative have been incapacitated and 375 individuals have been convicted or pled guilty in the United States. It also increases the penalties for those who commit terrorism.

“Our world fundamentally changed after Sept. 11,” said Graves. “We must remain vigilant in prosecuting the war against terror at home and abroad.”

The PATRIOT Act must be reauthorized by the Senate and signed by the President before it expires later this year.