California Highway Patrol Officer Thomas Steiner

CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL OFFICER THOMAS STEINER

Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, flags were flown at half-staff recently in memory of Thomas J. Steiner, a California Highway Patrol, CHP, officer allegedly killed by a teenager who wanted to impress a gang. Officer Steiner was 35 years old and left behind a wife, Heidi, and two children, Bryan and Justin. I am honored to stand before my colleagues to memorialize this dedicated officer.

On Wednesday, April 21, 2004, shortly before 3 p.m., Officer Steiner exited the Pomona South Courthouse after testifying in traffic court. Before he could get to his patrol car, shots were fired at the officer from behind the wheel of a car. Officer Steiner died at a local hospital later that evening. An arrest was made in the case.

Thomas Steiner died because he wore a uniform. Our law enforcement officers know the dangers and demands of their profession, but despite the daily challenges they face, they commit themselves to protecting others and do so selflessly. A five-year CHP veteran, Officer Steiner clearly exemplified the very best. CHP Chief Mike Brown told a news source that Steiner "loved being a cop. He loved putting on the uniform. He wore it with pride." CHP Commissioner D.O. "Spike" Helmick called Steiner a "quiet family man always ready to help." Steiner was also known as a mentor to newcomers to the department. He will be deeply missed by all those privileged to have known him.

Officer Steiner's murder sent shockwaves through the community. Steiner was known as a solid officer and devoted family man. Whether drinking his morning Gatorade at the station or bottle-feeding his baby on the homefront, Officer Steiner's goals seemed to be simple: to do his job well and be a good husband and father.

As the community reflects on the life and memory of Officer Steiner with a very heavy heart, I salute his legacy as a dedicated officer and family man, and extend my deepest condolences to his entire family and to his friends.