Committing Assault on a Police Officer in Creek County is a felony. It’s important though to note that “police officer” may encompass several types of authorities. For example, sheriffs, corrections officers, game wardens, and more are all under the “police officer” umbrella. This article will explain assault and battery on a police officer and the legal ramifications of a conviction.
Assault and Battery on a Police Officer: The Statute
“Every person who….knowingly commits battery or assault and battery upon the person of a police officer, sheriff, deputy sheriff, highway patrolman, corrections [officer], or other state peace officers…while the officer is in the performance of his or her duties….shall be guilty of a felony…”—21 Okl.St.Ann. §649(B)
What Assault and Battery Means
For assault and battery on a police officer to exist, there must first be assault and battery. So what does assault and battery mean under the law? Well, assault is putting someone in fear of harm. This could be verbal threats, threatening gestures, and even non-verbal movements. For example, stepping toward a person while raising your first may be assault. The key is, there must be no physical contact.
Battery means generally the same thing as assault, except physical contact must occur. So, for a person to commit battery they must hit another. This can be with their hands, feet, or any items. For instance, kicking, punching, shoving, or throwing an object at someone are all forms of battery.
FOR MORE INFO ON ASSAULT AND BATTERY SEE OUR ARTICLE HERE ON OUR BLOG.
Legal Ramifications of A&B on an Officer
Now that you have a basic understanding of assault and battery, doing any of these to an officer comprises assault and battery on a police officer. As you can expect, this carries harsh consequences. These charges are automatically a felony with a possible 5 years imprisonment. You may also face fines reaching $500.
Call Creek County Attorneys
If you find yourself facing the charge of battery on a police officer, then you will likely want legal counsel. Our attorneys understand that this is a sensitive topic today. We want to make sure you get a fair trial and have the best possible defense. Your first consultation is free.
