Blumenthal, DeLauro, And Murphy Laud Senate Passage Of Amendment Protecting Veterans’ Memorials

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-3) and Congressman Chris Murphy (D-5) Sunday hailed passage of a Senate amendment to strengthen federal penalties for the theft of veterans’ memorials. The Protection of Veterans Memorials Act was introduced by Blumenthal as an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act of 2013. Blumenthal’s Senate amendment was drafted based on legislation written by Murphy in response to memorial thefts in New Britain, Shelton, Derby and Ansonia. DeLauro joined Murphy in introducing the legislation in the House. 

Current federal theft statutes make it a federal felony to transport across state lines stolen goods of more than $5,000. The Protection of Veterans’ Memorials Act makes it a federal felony to steal veterans’ memorials of any value, punishable by a maximum of up to 10 years in prison and a minimum fine of $250,000 or double the amount of the stolen item.

“This measure should deter anyone tempted to steal or desecrate these memorials to military heroes.  Memorial plaques honor brave service members whose sacrifices make our nation great. They deserve our highest respect and protection.  Anyone defiling veteran memorials and stealing them to sell as scrap deserves severe punishment and shame,” said Blumenthal.

 The Senate NDAA bill now heads to conference where it will be reconciled with the House passed version of the bill.

 “The theft of these memorials is absolutely sickening,” said Murphy. "Our communities’ memorials honor the service and sacrifice of America’s Veterans and they should stand for all time as a testament to those who have worn our nation's uniform. We hope that the severity of these penalties will serve as a stern warning against would-be thieves taking these memorials out of Connecticut, and help local law enforcement catch perpetrators in the state and bring them to justice.” 

"I applaud the Senate for taking this important step to prosecute individuals whose deplorable actions against veterans deserve to be punished. Memorials are a testament to our veterans and we owe it to the millions who have served our country to honor their service. The brave men and women who defend America deserve nothing but the utmost respect and I will work to make sure this legislation is included in the final defense bill so the President can sign it into law,” said DeLauro.

Blumenthal will be available Sunday for interviews regarding the legislation. Please contact Elizabeth Benton to arrange.  Please contact Sara Lonardo to arrange an interview with DeLauro and Ben Marter to arrange an interview with Murphy.