RILEY ENDORSED BY

FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE

October 18, 2006

Birmingham- The Alabama Fraternal Order of Police on Tuesday endorsed Gov. Bob Riley’s reelection effort.  The largest police organization in Alabama cited Gov. Riley’s steadfast support of law enforcement and their families as a major reason for their support of the Governor.

“Gov. Riley has proven himself to be a strong advocate for law enforcement,” said Bill Davis, the group’s president.  “He is accessible to law enforcement, he stands up for law enforcement, and he is the best candidate for this office.”

The Alabama State Lodge of the Fraternal Order of Police has 8,300 members throughout the state, making it the largest police organization in Alabama.

“It is a real honor to be endorsed by Alabama’s law enforcement community,” Gov. Riley said.  “These men and women are some of the most dedicated and courageous people in Alabama. Their efforts have kept Alabamians safe through hurricanes, taken illegal immigrants off the streets, and put away sexual predators for good.”

“Their daily acts of heroism have allowed Alabama to prosper.  We can’t thank them enough,” Riley added.

Gov. Riley has been an ardent supporter of law enforcement throughout his term.  With his leadership, state troopers received an annual pay raise of 10% earlier this year.  Gov. Riley has also signed cost of living raises totaling 11% for all state employees, including troopers.  In just two years, Gov. Riley has raised state trooper pay by more than 21%.

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