LINCOLN- U.S. Rep. Mike Flood, at a time when crime rates are rising in Lincoln, says that his opponent Sen. Pansing Brooks is too 'soft on crime.'

Flood described Pansing Brooks' past policies as "good for criminals, bad for police, and bad for public safety" during a news media event outside a Lincoln police station.

More specifically, Flood pointed out several bills that Pansing Brooks supported in the Legislature, including one that Flood said would provide an early release for criminals, and another that would eliminate mandatory minimum sentences for drug dealers.

During the event, Flood also stated that murders in Lincoln have increased by 100%, auto thefts by 40%, and arson by 37% over the last year.

However, the information cited by the Congressman, which was provided to him by the Lincoln Police Department, does not match reporting of city homicides.

Flood stated that lighter sentences and early releases for inmates "send a loud message to criminals and police officers." He went on to say also that "[he] back[s] the blue," and that "they need to know it.

Responding to Flood's criticism, Pansing Brooks claimed that Flood had "voted against law enforcement multiple times" while serving in the House of Representatives.

"In the Legislature earlier this year," said Pansing Brooks, "Flood voted against police, to create permit-less carry for handguns and to remove training requirements."

For the full article click HERE