Makes it a felony for any person to remove or attempt to remove any firearm or other weapon or any communication device from any peace officer or investigator of the department of attorney general.

Rhode Island Bill Summary: Disarming a Peace Officer

This bill would make it a serious crime — specifically a felony — for anyone to take or try to take a firearm, other weapon, or communication device (such as a radio) away from a peace officer or an investigator working for Rhode Island's Department of Attorney General. Currently, this type of action may be treated as a lesser offense, and this bill would increase the severity of the criminal charge.

The bill affects anyone who physically attempts to disarm one of these officers while they are on duty. It also directly impacts peace officers and Attorney General investigators, who would receive stronger legal protections when carrying out their work. The inclusion of communication devices — not just weapons — is notable, as it recognizes that taking away an officer's ability to call for backup or communicate can also put them in danger.

In practical terms, if someone were to grab an officer's gun, baton, or radio, they could face felony charges rather than a misdemeanor. Felony convictions generally carry heavier penalties, including longer potential prison sentences, and can have lasting consequences on a person's record, such as affecting their ability to vote, own firearms, or find employment.

As of now, the bill has been introduced and referred to the House Judiciary Committee, but hearings have been postponed twice at the sponsor's request, meaning it has not yet moved forward in the legislative process.