HB 2340
Initials NM Page 1 Judiciary
ARIZONA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Fifty-seventh Legislature
First Regular Session
HB 2340: murder; law enforcement officer; punishment
Sponsor: Representative Martinez, LD 16
Committee on Judiciary
Overview
Heightens penalties for the intentional murder of law enforcement officers in the line of duty.
History
The most severe homicide offense in the criminal code is first degree murder, which is
classified as a class 1 felony. One form of first degree murder is intentionally or knowingly
causing the death of a law enforcement officer in the line of duty (A.R.S. § 13-1105).
There are only three class 1 felony offenses in the criminal code: 1) first degree murder; 2)
second degree murder; and 3) sexual conduct with a minor who is 12 years old or younger
and who suffers serious physical injury (A.R.S. §§ 13-1104; 13-1105; 13-1405). A person who
is convicted of murder may be sentenced to death — if the prosecution files the appropriate
notice —, natural life imprisonment or life imprisonment as determined pursuant to
procedures outlined in statute (A.R.S. §§ 3-751; 13-752).
Provisions
1. Increases the penalty for intentionally causing the death of a law enforcement officer in
the line of duty to only death or natural life imprisonment. (Sec. 1)
2. Defines law enforcement officer. (Sec. 1)
☐ Prop 105 (45 votes) ☐ Prop 108 (40 votes) ☐ Emergency (40 votes) ☐ Fiscal Note