Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke, Chairwoman of the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emerging Threats, Cybersecurity and Science and Technology, released the following statement on the arrest of Faisal Shahzad:

“I want to applaud the quick and coordinated response that led to the arrest of Faisal Shahzad, a suspect in the attempted Time Square bombing. I am thankful to the observant citizens, Lance Orton and Duane Jackson, who reported the suspicious activity as well as our local first responders and federal authorities, who swiftly investigated the incident. I also want to applaud the “See Something, Say Something” campaign by the Metro Transit Authority which encourages residents to report suspicious activity to keep New York City safe.

“This unfortunate incident highlights the importance of ensuring that our first responders have the tools they need to handle imminent threats to our national security. This is why I, along with Ranking Member of the House Homeland Security Committee, Rep. Peter King, have worked to secure funding for the “Securing the Cities” Program. This program provides for a unified strategy for defending against radiological and nuclear threats.

“I am also working with my Congressional colleagues to bring my legislation, H.R. 4842, the Homeland Security Science and Technology Authorization Act of 2010 to the House Floor. This legislation authorizes important management functions and programs within the Department of Homeland Security’s Science &Technology (S&T) Directorate. The Securing the Cities program is authorized in this legislation.

“As the only New York City Representative on the House Homeland Security Committee, I will be working very closely with the local and federal authorities to monitor the developments in this attempted bombing. I will continue to support funding for our first responders to ensure they receive adequate tools to combat terrorism and protect New York City and this nation.”

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