NE Missouri News

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) and Congressman Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05) have penned a letter to Attorney General Garland and Director Colette Peters of the Federal Bureau of Prisons, imploring them to ensure that convicted felon Robert Courtney remains in prison.

“Robert Courtney’s violent crimes were heinous,” the members expressed. “To this day, it’s difficult to find anyone in the region that hasn’t been impacted, who didn’t have a family member, friend, or loved-one stolen from them too soon by Courtney. Through fraud and deceit, he stole precious time from so many. The damage he inflicted on those who trusted him for medical care through his wanton acts of violence for personal gain is immeasurable. As penance for his crimes Courtney should serve no less than the entirety of his sentence behind bars.”

In 2020, the Department of Justice had initially considered transferring Courtney to home confinement, but this decision was reversed after Graves and Cleaver expressed their opposition. The move was being contemplated due to the belief that Courtney was “at minimal risk of recidivating” and out of concern for his health. However, the congressmen highlighted, “It should be noted that Courtney had no such concern for the health of the patients under his care.”

The stance taken by Graves and Cleaver underscores their unwavering commitment to ensuring that justice is served and that individuals who have caused harm are held accountable for their actions.