This bill seeks to amend and reenact section 61-2-10b of the Code of West Virginia, specifically addressing the penalties associated with assaults on police officers and police dogs. The bill introduces new definitions and clarifications regarding various categories of personnel, including law enforcement officers and emergency service personnel. Notably, it expands the definition of "law enforcement officer" to include any animal trained for use by a law enforcement officer in the course of their duties.

Additionally, the bill significantly increases the penalties for various forms of assault against government representatives, health care workers, utility workers, emergency service personnel, correctional employees, and law enforcement officers. It changes the classification of battery and assault from misdemeanors to felonies, thereby imposing harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences and higher fines for repeat offenders. The bill also stipulates that individuals convicted of crimes against correctional employees cannot have their sentences run concurrently with other sentences they may be serving.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-2-10b