(STATEHOUSE) Jan. 15, 2008 - The House Judiciary Committee on Tuesday passed House Bill 1074, dealing with the disarming of a law enforcement officer, authored by Rep. Ed Soliday (R-Valparaiso). The bill makes it a Class C felony if a person knowingly and intentionally takes a firearm or weapon from a law enforcement officer or from within the immediate proximity of the officer without the officer's consent while the officer is engaged in the performance of official duties.
"Attempting to take a weapon from a law enforcement officer creates significant danger to not only the officer, but also innocent bystanders as well as the person resisting arrest," said Rep. Soliday. "We needed significant deterrent measure to protect all concerned."
In addition, the bill enhances this crime to a Class B felony if the officer is injured and a Class A felony if an officer dies or if the officer is injured and a firearm was taken.
The bill passed the Judiciary Committee unanimously and will be introduced to the full House for a second reading and discussion.
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