FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 4, 2004

LARSON STATEMENT ON THE ABUSE OF IRAQI PRISONERS

WASHINGTON, D.C.-U.S. Congressman John B. Larson (CT-1) today released the following statement regarding the abuses reportedly committed by American personnel at the Iraqi prison at Abu Ghraib.

�The abuse of prisoners by U.S. personnel in Iraq is disgusting and shameful. As a member of the Armed Services Committee, I am sickened by the misconduct of those involved and believe that a full investigation of their actions must be undertaken. There should be public hearings held immediately on this issue to make certain that those who are responsible are held accountable and steps must be taken to ensure that shocking abuses such as these can never occur again.

�The vast majority of our brave men and women serving in Iraq conduct themselves in a way that can make every American proud. Yet disgraceful actions such as these damage the credibility of the United States throughout the world and cast a pall over our troops serving in the Middle East and our efforts to rebuild Iraq. The American troops that engaged in this behavior are not representative of our Armed Forces or the American people. Our nation and our military are better than that,� said Larson.

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Congressman Larson Serves on the House Armed Services Committee