(SBT24/7News) In the aftermath of the sentencing of the teen who shot and killed a South Bend police officer, Indiana State Rep. Tom Dermody, R-LaPorte, Friday urged a review of state laws regarding those who kill law enforcement officers.

"We must make a clear statement that Hoosiers will not stand for their law enforcement officers to be gunned down on our streets," Dermody said in a written statement. "This recent trial and its subsequent sentencing have highlighted the failings of Indiana laws regarding cop killers. Those who dare to threaten our brave protectors should be severely punished in accordance with the crime they commit."

South Bend police Cpl. Scott Severns was shot April 21, 2006, and died two days later. His killer, Jeffrey Finley, last week was sentenced to 65 years in prison. Finley is 19 years old and could be released in his early 50s with credit for good behavior.

Dermody said he would support a bill mandating the death penalty or life without parole for a person convicted of killing a police officer. He urged the Indiana General Assembly to take such action during the 2008 session.

You can read more about this story in Saturday's South Bend Tribune.