Derby State Rep. Klarides-Ditria Signs onto Bill Protecting First Responders

SHELTON, CT — A proposed bill that would make it a hate crime to assault a first responder has received support from state Rep. Nicole Klarides-Ditria (R-105th), who signed onto the legislation this week.

The bill, H.B. 5297, was introduced by Rep. J.P. Sredzinski (R-112th) of Monroe, and Klarides-Ditria says the proposal is gaining support throughout the General Assembly.

“As a wife of a police officer, I want to thank Rep. Sredzinski for proposing this bill and all of the other lawmakers who have introduced similar legislation,” said Klarides-Ditria in a statement. “The brave men and women who protect our streets should receive the utmost respect for putting their lives in harm’s way, and individuals who look to purposely injure public safety officials should receive severe penalties for their actions.”

Klarides-Ditria's district includes Derby, Seymour and Beacon Falls, and she urges residents and first responders interested in this bill to contact their State Representative or Senator to express their support. A full list of legislators can be found on the General Assembly’s website, www.cga.ct.gov.

Last year, the state of Louisiana became the first state in the nation to make it a hate crime for intentionally assaulting first responders. The current offense for assaulting law enforcement officers and other emergency professionals in Connecticut is a Class C Felony, which holds a punishment of 1 to 10 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.

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