HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) — U. S. congressman Lloyd Smucker, who represents Lancaster, weighed in on the protests that have been sparking controversy.

The Republican says it is a sad and tragic situation for both the officer who had to take a person’s life and the victim and his family, although he contended that the officer was in the right.

“I think when a grown man is approaching you quickly with a knife raised, there’s a right to self-defense for any individual, in particular, a police officer,” he said.

Smucker is calling on the mayor to show support and commitment for police and to put an end to violent protests.