Mission Statement
On September 11, 2001, criminals perpetrated an act of war against American civilians in this country. That terrorist threat to Americans on our soil was a turning point in American history. And, it is law enforcement's greatest challenge. Unlike our past efforts against crime, our fight against terrorism is not solely a criminal justice endeavor – it is, quite simply, a mission to defend our nation and our citizens. A mission in which we do not have the luxury to wait for terrorists to strike to begin our investigations and take action. Law enforcement – all law enforcement – must prevent first, and prosecute second.
The September 11th attacks demonstrated that terrorist acts are conducted by expertly organized, highly coordinated, and well financed organizations, operating without regard to borders, to advance their agendas. Our fight against terrorism thus is both a war to defend the security of our nation and our citizens against terrorism, and a unified criminal justice effort. Attorney General Ashcroft explained our new mission:
"We must be defenders of justice and defenders of the people; we must devote our talents and energies to the urgent task of saving lives ahead of losing cases."
At this moment, service men and women are risking their lives to battle the enemy oversees. As the men and women of justice and law enforcement, we must engage the enemy here at home. And thus, we have a new mission and a new charge:
To any terrorist and those who would seek to harm our citizens, hear this warning: If you violate a local law, you will be put in jail and kept in custody as long as possible. We will use every available statute. We will seek every prosecutorial advantage. We will use all our weapons within the law and under the Constitution to protect life and enhance security for the citizens of this great district.
And so, our mission – the new mission of law enforcement -- is before us. And we will be judged by that mission alone.