Encore | Witness to History: Sirhan Sirhan and the Assassination of Robert F. Kennedy, Part 2 Artwork

Precinct 444: The National Law Enforcement Museum Podcast

Over a decade of planning and persistence in the making, the National Law Enforcement Museum has opened its doors to the public. Finally, citizens and law enforcement professionals from diverse perspectives and backgrounds will have a place to share in the vibrant story of American law enforcement. Within the walls of the Museum’s strikingly contemporary exterior, artifacts from our collection of more than 25,000 objects tell the story of American law enforcement – past, present, and future – and engage visitors of all ages in memorable, immersive and experiential exhibits. More importantly, we’re proud that the Museum will serve as a platform for constructive dialogue to help strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. We invite all listeners to follow us and submit questions for upcoming episodes!

For questions or inquiries about the show: Precinct444@nleomf.org

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Precinct 444: The National Law Enforcement Museum Podcast

Encore | Witness to History: Sirhan Sirhan and the Assassination of Robert F. Kennedy, Part 2

November 06, 2024 • Season 9 • Episode 4

The Encore series of the Precinct 444 Podcast is an engaging look back at past Museum programs to find insight into historical and contemporary matters facing law enforcement.

In this episode, we revisit the 2012 Witness to History program about the Robert F. Kennedy assassination, which featured three key figures, including the arresting officer of Sirhan Sirhan, Arturo Placencia. Each speaker brought a unique perspective to the issue, now more than 50 years later.

On the night of June 5, 1968, then-presidential candidate Robert Kennedy was making his way through the crowded Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles on his way to the ballroom to declare victory in the California Democratic primary. But before he could, he was assassinated by Sirhan Sirhan.

Officer Placencia’s vivid description of the emotions and confusion following the shooting that injured five people in addition to Kennedy brought those chaotic moments alive for the audience. “I was a 21-year-old rookie cop, only three weeks out of the academy when we got the call,” Placencia said.

Part 1 of this Encore series begins with remarks from author Evan Thomas, author of "Robert Kennedy: His Life," and Arturo Placencia, arresting officer of Sirhan SIrhan.

Part 2 will conclude the series with comments from Steven Hughes regarding protocols of the United States Secret Service and how they've changed since June 5, 1968 to today, and closing remarks from former NLEOMF CEO, Craig Floyd.

This program was sponsored by Target© and recorded by C-SPAN.

Featuring:

Craig Floyd, Former CEO, NLEOMF
Arturo Placencia, LAPD (Ret.), arresting officer of Sirhan Sirhan
Evan Thomas, author of “Robert Kennedy: His Life”
Steven Hughes, United States Secret Service Special Agent in charge of Dignitary Protective Service

https://nleomf.org/museum/precinct-444/