November 10, 2006
Press Release

Bedford County Sheriff Appears before U.S. Senate Committee, on Commerce, Science, and Transportation

Bedford County Sheriff Mike Brown, testified before the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, at a hearing held, September 19, 2006. Sheriff Brown, who has appeared on Capital Hill frequently, was asked to update the Committee, on the continuing efforts of the Southern Virginia, Blue Ridge Thunder, Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

After updating the Committee on the increasing complexity of the continued use of the Internet to expand the online community of child pornographers and pedophiles, and issuing additional warnings, the Sheriff was asked to respond-in writing, within 10 days--to questions submitted by members of the Committee, which includes Senators McCain, ­­­­Burns, Pryor, and Chairman Ted Stevens.

In early October, Sheriff Brown, responded by asking the Committee to ensure that current Federal Statutes which pertain to this type of violation be amended to provide for hefty fines, and require the data retention requirements for all ISP’s be extended to a 6 month minimum.

Sheriff Brown also recommended that foreign governments be asked to crack down on child pornography within their countries, and that the efforts of the ICAC Task Force program are supported through increased financial support.

Major Gardner’s promotion takes effect immediately.

Contact: Robin Sundquist – Admin Officer – 540.586.4800