The bill amends Section 13A-10-41 of the Code of Alabama 1975, which pertains to the crime of resisting arrest. The new language specifies that a person commits this crime if they intentionally prevent or attempt to prevent a peace officer from effecting a lawful arrest of themselves or another individual. The bill changes the classification of resisting arrest from a Class B misdemeanor to a Class A misdemeanor, while also introducing enhanced penalties for certain circumstances. Specifically, if a person brandishes a deadly weapon or causes physical injury to another during the act of resisting arrest, it will be classified as a Class D felony.

Additionally, the bill establishes that if a person uses or attempts to use a deadly weapon or causes serious physical injury to another individual while resisting arrest, the offense will be classified as a Class C felony. The changes aim to provide clearer definitions and stricter penalties for resisting arrest, thereby enhancing law enforcement's ability to manage such situations. The act is set to become effective on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 13A-10-41
Engrossed: 13A-10-41