The bill amends the definitions related to the offense of threatening a judicial official or juror in Arkansas. Specifically, it expands the definition of "immediate family" to include the parent of a judicial official or juror. Additionally, the definition of "judicial official" is broadened to encompass not only district judges, circuit judges, Court of Appeals judges, and Supreme Court Justices, but also prosecuting attorneys, deputy prosecuting attorneys, and individuals authorized to hear evidence under oath.
These changes aim to provide clearer protections for judicial officials and jurors by explicitly defining who constitutes their immediate family and expanding the scope of individuals classified as judicial officials. This legislative update reflects a commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the judicial process and the safety of those involved in it.
Statutes affected: HB 1088: 5-53-201(1)