Vice President JD Vance condemned American leadership for turning police into “enemies” after Special Deputy Larry Henderson was deliberately killed in the line of duty in Cincinnati.
Key Takeaways
- Vice President Vance sharply criticized American leaders who vilify police officers, following the tragic death of Special Deputy Larry Henderson.
- Rodney Hinton faces aggravated murder charges for allegedly intentionally driving his vehicle into Henderson, with his trial set for February 2026.
- The Trump administration has implemented an executive order providing legal resources to police officers and making it more difficult to sue them when acting appropriately.
- Senator Bernie Moreno introduced the Larry Henderson Act, which would establish a mandatory minimum 20-year sentence for assaulting federal officers.
- Vance emphasized that President Trump’s administration “stands behind” law enforcement, highlighting the need for both policy and moral support.
Vance Condemns Anti-Police Sentiment Following Officer’s Death
Vice President JD Vance delivered a powerful rebuke to American leadership that he believes has undermined law enforcement following the tragic killing of Special Deputy Larry Henderson in Cincinnati. During remarks at a National Police Week event, Vance specifically called out leaders who have created a hostile environment for police officers through rhetoric and policies. The Vice President’s comments come at a time when law enforcement officers across the country continue to face dangerous situations while protecting their communities, often without adequate support from elected officials.
“Larry Henderson lost his life because he was doing his job and keeping people safe,” said Vice President JD Vance. But I also think a lot of the blame falls on American leadership, who for too long, have made our police officers out to be enemies, instead of the great public servants that all of us know that they are.
Details of the Tragic Incident and Charges
Special Deputy Larry Henderson was killed after Rodney Hinton allegedly drove his vehicle directly into the officer. According to reports, the incident occurred following police shooting Hinton’s son, Ryan Hinton, during an earlier confrontation. Authorities state that Rodney Hinton deliberately targeted Henderson in what appears to be a retaliatory act. This horrific incident highlights the dangerous situations officers face daily, often becoming targets themselves while carrying out their sworn duties to protect communities and maintain order.
Hinton now faces serious legal consequences, having been charged with aggravated murder. He has entered a not guilty plea, with his trial scheduled for February 2026. The case has sent shockwaves through the law enforcement community, not only in Cincinnati but nationwide, as it represents yet another example of targeted violence against police officers. Vance has been vocal in defending the actions of officers involved in the initial confrontation with Ryan Hinton, stating they were totally justified in their response.
Trump Administration’s Support for Law Enforcement
The Vice President used this somber occasion to reassure law enforcement officers across the nation of the Trump administration’s unwavering support. Vance highlighted a recent executive order signed by President Trump designed to provide critical legal resources to police officers. This order makes it significantly more difficult to sue officers when they are acting appropriately within their duties. The move represents a clear policy shift from previous administrations and sends a strong message about the current administration’s priorities in supporting those who protect our communities.
“So know from the president on down, this administration stands behind you guys,” Vice President JD Vance told officers gathered at the event.
In direct response to the killing of Special Deputy Henderson, Senator Bernie Moreno introduced the Larry Henderson Act, which would establish a mandatory minimum 20-year sentence for assaulting federal law enforcement officers. This legislative proposal represents a concrete step toward providing enhanced protection for officers and creating stronger deterrents against those who would target law enforcement. Vance is scheduled to speak at the National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service during National Police Week, further demonstrating the administration’s commitment to honoring fallen officers and supporting their colleagues.
Policy and Moral Leadership
Throughout his remarks, Vice President Vance emphasized that supporting law enforcement requires both concrete policy actions and moral leadership from elected officials. The Vice President argued that the Trump administration is delivering on both fronts, contrasting this with previous leadership that he characterized as undermining police authority and safety. This dual approach of providing practical resources and consistent public support represents what Vance described as a comprehensive strategy to reverse years of anti-police sentiment fostered by some American leaders.
As National Police Week continues, the administration’s focus on law enforcement issues highlights a key priority for President Trump’s second term. The Vice President’s passionate defense of police officers and criticism of those who vilify them signals a continued commitment to backing the blue at every level. For communities concerned about public safety and the treatment of law enforcement, the administration’s stance represents a welcome acknowledgment of the essential role police play in maintaining order and protecting citizens across America.
