Abrams Introduces Legislation Honoring Officers Dennis Bennington and Robert Seiffert

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Cindy Abrams today introduced House Bill 180, legislation that designates a portion of I-71 in Hamilton County as the “Officers Dennis Bennington and Robert Seiffert Memorial Highway.”

Officers Bennington and Seiffert both served the Cincinnati Police department for over eight years. They were killed in the line of duty in 1979 near Oak and May Street in Cincinnati during a traffic stop. 

“A memorial highway is a simple but meaningful way to pay tribute to these heroes who dedicated their lives to the city and citizens of Cincinnati,” said Abrams. “It will serve as a reminder to honor and appreciate the men and women in law enforcement who protect our safety every day.” 

The highway designation would be between mile markers 1 and 3 on I-71 North and South, near the site of their deaths.

Tina Bennington Sansone, Officer Bennington’s daughter, reached out to Abrams’s with the idea for a memorial highway. 

“I have always admired the bravery and courage of my father to fight for justice, protect and stand up for those you do not know, and offer your life for their well-being,” said Tina. “Allowing my father and Officer Seiffert to have recognition for their heroic self-sacrifice, bravery and courage would be such an honor for our family, friends, coworkers and all those who have lived all these years without these two great men.”

The bill awaits referral to a House committee.