Getting arrested by a police officer can be terrifying. Many people’s first instinct is to defend themselves against police officers. However, doing so can lead to aggravated assault charges. Facing aggravated assault charges against a police officer can lead to severe penalties. Our Arizona criminal defense attorneys explain the charges you could face below.
Aggravated Assault Charges Against a Police Officer
Any assault against a police officer in Arizona is a felony offense. Aggravated assault charges could lead to years in prison and extensive fines. In addition, you would have a felony conviction on your criminal record, which can affect your ability to find employment.
The penalties for aggravated assault against law enforcement may vary depending on whether or not the victim was injured and if a weapon was used in the offense. Below are the charges you could face after aggravating a police officer:
- Aggravated assault committed on law enforcement - Class 5 felony (2+ years in prison)
- Aggravated assault committed on law enforcement that resulted in injuries - Class 4 felony (3+ years in prison)
- Aggravated assault committed on law enforcement with a deadly weapon - Class 2 felony (12.5 years in prison)
Law Enforcement Under ARS § 13-1204(A)(8)
Arizona law defines an officer to be any one of the following who is engaged in official duties:
- Peace officers, such as law enforcement officers
- Firefighters
- Fire investigators
- Fire inspectors
- Emergency medical technicians
- Paramedics
- Teacher or another school employee
- Health care practitioners
- Prosecutor
- Code enforcement officer
- State or municipal park ranger
- Public defender
Arizona Criminal Defense Attorneys
Facing aggravated assault charges against a police officer is a serious crime. However, just because you have been charged doesn’t mean you will be convicted. Our team at Suzuki Law Offices, L.L.C. can help you build a solid case to get your charges reduced or even dismissed.
Facing criminal charges, contact our Arizona criminal defense attorneys today at (602) 842-6762!