This bill aims to amend the penalties for assault and battery against athletic officials in West Virginia. It specifies that if a person commits an assault against an athletic official while they are performing their duties, the offender will be guilty of a misdemeanor and face a minimum fine of $500, with potential jail time of no less than one month and no more than six months. Similarly, if a battery is committed against an athletic official, the offender will also be guilty of a misdemeanor, facing a minimum fine of $1,000 and a jail sentence of no less than six months and no more than 12 months.

The bill clarifies the definition of "athletic official" to include individuals such as umpires, referees, and coaches who enforce rules or supervise participants at sports events. The proposed changes enhance the legal consequences for those who assault or batter athletic officials, reflecting a commitment to protecting individuals in these roles during sporting events.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-2-15a