Posted: | February 24, 2017 12:08 PM |
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From: | Representative David H. Zimmerman |
To: | All House members |
Subject: | Establishment of additional crime “First Responder Intimidation” in the Crimes Code – “Blue Lives Matter” |
I plan to introduce a bill that will ensure that a person who commits a crime that specifically targets a first responder because of their occupation will receive an additional penalty if convicted. This “Blue Lives Matter” bill is motivated by recent upsurge in attacks against police, fire and EMT crews that were motivated by hatred toward the victim simply because they wear the uniform and work to protect us. This legislation will establish the crime of “First Responder Intimidation” in the Crimes Code. The crime occurs if a person, motivated by hatred of the victim because of their employment as a law enforcement officer, firefighter or EMT, commits a crime of violence or certain property crimes against the victim. The grading will be one class higher than the underlying offense. I hope you will join me by co-sponsoring this legislation. |
Introduced as HB982