Court security officers in Las Vegas hailed for actions stopping gunman

WASHINGTON -- The House passed a resolution Wednesday honoring the victims of the January shooting at the Lloyd George U.S. Courthouse and the law enforcers who responded to the attack.

Court security officer Stan Cooper, 72, was shot and killed on Jan. 4 by Johnny Lee Wicks, who entered the building, pulled a shotgun from his jacket and began shooting. Deputy U.S. Marshal Richard Gardner, 48, was shot in the arm.

In a short speech, Rep. Dina Titus, D-Nev., noted the quick response by security officers and deputy marshals, who shot and killed Wicks and "ensured the safety of courthouse, staff, visitors and other bystanders."

The resolution was sponsored by Titus and Reps. Shelley Berkley, D-Nev., and Dean Heller, R-Nev.

In addition to commending the responders, Berkley also addressed the situation for Wicks, who might have been acting out of rage because of a dispute with a Social Security officer and because his benefits were being reduced.

"For those of our fellow citizens who are so frustrated with their government or so angry with life or with what is happening in this country or in their lives, there has to be a better way than this to express your anger and frustration," she said.

The House resolution "offers its deepest condolences" to the family and friends of Cooper, "who valiantly gave his life in the line of duty," and wishes Gardner "a speedy recovery."

The resolution "applauds the court security officers and members of the United States Marshals Service and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department for their brave and courageous actions."