West Virginia 2024 Regular Session

West Virginia House Bill HB4459

Introduced
1/10/24  

Caption

Relating to intentionally fleeing or attempting to flee in a vehicle from a law-enforcement officer, probation officer, or parole officer

Impact

If enacted, HB 4459 would significantly alter the existing framework regarding penalties for fleeing law enforcement in West Virginia. It distinguishes between various acts of flight and imposes penalties that escalate based on the severity of the act, including potential felonies for those who cause injury or death while fleeing. This establishes a clearer and more robust approach to deterring individuals from fleeing and helps in addressing public concerns regarding safety and law enforcement interactions.

Summary

House Bill 4459 aims to update the legal consequences for individuals who intentionally flee from law enforcement officers, probation officers, or parole officers in a vehicle. The bill seeks to amend ยง61-5-17 of the Code of West Virginia to increase the penalties for fleeing in a vehicle, reflecting a stricter stance on this behavior. The proposed changes include heavier fines and longer imprisonment terms for different levels of offenses associated with fleeing from law enforcement. There are specific penalties depending on whether or not the fleeing occurs under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and for causing injury or death during such incidents.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 4459 appears generally favorable among lawmakers who believe that stricter penalties are necessary to ensure accountability and enhance public safety. Proponents argue that making the penalties more severe will deter reckless behavior and protect both law enforcement officials and the community at large. However, there may be concerns from civil rights advocates who worry that increased penalties might disproportionately affect individuals from marginalized communities or could lead to harsher consequences without addressing the underlying issues behind such behavior.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the fairness and efficacy of enforcing the stricter penalties proposed in HB 4459. Critics may question whether increasing incarceration and fines genuinely addresses the problems of fleeing behavior, or whether it may inadvertently lead to negative interactions between law enforcement and communities. Furthermore, discussions about the bill could involve debates over its impact on civil liberties and the potential for disproportionate enforcement against certain populations within the state.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WV HB2837

Relating to intentionally fleeing or attempting to flee in a vehicle from a law-enforcement officer, probation officer, or parole officer

WV SB123

Creating enhanced penalties for fleeing officer

WV HB3363

Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act

WV HB3381

Make it a felony to kill a canine officer

WV HB3362

To make an attack on a K-9 officer a felony

WV SB490

Patrol Officer Cassie Marie Johnson Memorial Act

WV HB2056

Relating to requiring a parolee or probationer found to have suffered with addiction to participate in a support service.

WV HB2527

Relating to revising the criminal code generally

WV HB2549

Permit teachers in K-12 schools be authorized to carry concealed firearms as a designated school protection officer

WV HB3448

Relating generally to probation officer field training

Similar Bills

AZ HB2032

Criminal damage; monuments; memorials; classification

CA AB660

Public agencies: unlawful interference.

DE HB182

An Act To Amend Title 11, Title 13, Title 16, And Title 31 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Child Abuse.

AZ SB1198

Animal cruelty; felony classification

AZ HB2742

Aggravated assault; transit; airport; rail

CA SB921

Animal welfare.

WV HB2837

Relating to intentionally fleeing or attempting to flee in a vehicle from a law-enforcement officer, probation officer, or parole officer

HI HB1231

Relating To Criminal Property Damage.