Assembly Bill 555 seeks to expand the legal definition and penalties associated with the crime of intentionally disarming a peace officer to include correctional officers and juvenile correctional officers. The bill amends the title of the existing statute 941.21 by replacing "a peace officer" with "an officer" and renumbers the current section to 941.21 (2). It also introduces new definitions and provisions, specifically creating subsections (1) and (3). Subsection (1) defines a correctional officer, while subsection (3) establishes that intentionally disarming a correctional officer by taking any dangerous weapon, device, or official item, such as keys or radios, without consent is also a Class H felony.

The bill emphasizes the importance of protecting correctional officers in their official capacity, aligning their legal protections with those of peace officers. By including items necessary for their duties, the legislation aims to enhance the safety and security of correctional facilities. The Joint Review Committee on Criminal Penalties may be requested to prepare a report due to the creation of this new crime and the revision of existing penalties.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 941.21(title), 941.21