Rep. Bradley’s bill increases penalty for assaulting police officers

(State House) – State Rep. Garrett J. Bradley, D-Hingham, has filed legislation for this session which increases penalties for assaulting a police officer, firefighter, emergency medical technician or other public employees who are engaged in the performance of their duties.

Those convicted of assaulting a law enforcement officer, firefighter or EMT engaged in their official duties would face imprisonment for not less than 3 nor more than 5 years or by imprisonment for not less than 1 year nor more than 2 and one-half years in the house of correction and by a fine of not less than $5,000 nor more than $10,000.  The bill also provides a punishment for assaulting other public employees while they are engaged in their official duties, by imprisonment for not less than 90 days nor more than 2 and one-half years in a house of correction or by a fine of not less than $500 nor more than $5,000.

Rep. Bradley said he filed the bill after a former police officer from Hull contacted his office.

Rep. Bradley said, “This legislation seeks to further protect our public safety officers and other public employees by discouraging abusive behavior and severely punishing those who might assault those whose job is to protect and serve the public,” he added.

The legislation, H.1218, is currently being reviewed by the Joint Committee on The Judiciary.