Connecticut House Bill HB05572

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/17
• Refer: 1/12/17

Caption

An Act Concerning An Enhanced Penalty For The Assault Of An Off-duty Police Officer Or Prison Guard.

Impact

If enacted, HB 5572 would significantly change the legal landscape surrounding the protection of off-duty law enforcement officers. By increasing the penalties for assaults against these individuals, the bill seeks to deter potential assailants and reinforce the notion that assaults on law enforcement officers are viewed particularly seriously by the legal system. The enhanced penalties could result in longer sentences and higher fines for offenders, which proponents argue is necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of those who serve and protect the community.

Summary

House Bill 5572, introduced by Representative Camillo, aims to enhance the penalties for assaulting off-duty police officers and prison guards. The bill proposes amendments to section 53a-167c of the general statutes, establishing stricter penalties for assault against officers or guards who are reasonably identifiable as such, provided that they were not engaged in provoking the assault. This legislation is intended to reinforce protections for law enforcement personnel during their off-duty hours, acknowledging the risks they face in maintaining public safety even while they are not on active duty.

Contention

There may be some points of contention regarding the application of this bill, particularly concerning definitions of 'reasonable identification' and what constitutes 'provoking' behavior. Critics might argue that these terms could lead to ambiguity in enforcement and prosecution, possibly resulting in disparities in how cases are handled. The bill could also be viewed by some as prioritizing the safety of law enforcement over other community considerations, sparking debates about equity in the legal system and the rights of individuals in confrontational situations.