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H 183

CRIMES AGAINST PEACE OFFICERS – Amends existing law to provide penalties for assault, battery, or murder of a peace officer.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill 183 imposes harsher penalties for crimes against peace officers in Idaho, including 15 years for assault and 35 years for murder, enhancing their legal protections.

Reported Printed and Referred to Judiciary, Rules & Administration
#courts #criminaloffensesandprocedures #lawenforcement
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Bill Summary · H 183

Summary of House Bill 183: Bolter-Stall Defend the Defender Act

Bill Number: H 183
Introduced: February 10, 2025
Status: Reported Printed and Referred to Judiciary, Rules & Administration
Classification: Bill
Subject: Courts, Criminal Offenses and Procedures, Law Enforcement

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 183, known as the Bolter-Stall Defend the Defender Act, aims to enhance the penalties for crimes committed against peace officers in Idaho. The legislation responds to a noted increase in assaults on peace officers and seeks to provide stronger legal protections for these individuals who serve in law enforcement roles. The bill is also a memorial to two Idaho peace officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes significant amendments to existing Idaho law regarding the punishment for crimes against peace officers:

  1. Assault or Battery on Peace Officers:

    • The bill amends Section 18-915 of the Idaho Code to establish a mandatory fixed term of imprisonment of 15 years for anyone convicted of assaulting a peace officer, with a potential maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
    • This provision aims to send a clear message that assaults on peace officers will result in severe consequences.

  2. Murder of Peace Officers:

    • The bill amends Section 18-4004 of the Idaho Code to set a minimum sentence of 35 years for individuals convicted of murdering a peace officer. If the death penalty is not sought, the court must impose a life sentence with a minimum confinement period of 10 years.

  3. Expanded Definitions:

    • The bill broadens the definition of "peace officer" to include various law enforcement and emergency personnel, thereby extending protections to a wider range of individuals serving in these capacities.

Impact

  • Who is Affected:

    • The legislation primarily affects peace officers, including police officers, sheriffs, and other law enforcement personnel. It also impacts individuals convicted of crimes against these officers, as they will face significantly harsher penalties.

  • Potential Costs:

    • While the fiscal note indicates no immediate financial impact on the state General Fund or local governments, there may be increased costs associated with the imprisonment of individuals convicted under the new provisions.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was reported printed and referred to the Judiciary, Rules & Administration Committee on February 11, 2025.
  • An emergency clause is included, declaring that the act will take effect on July 1, 2025, ensuring that the new penalties can be implemented promptly.

Conclusion

House Bill 183 seeks to strengthen the legal framework protecting peace officers in Idaho by imposing stricter penalties for assaults and murders against them. By doing so, the legislation aims to deter potential offenders and honor the sacrifices made by law enforcement personnel in the line of duty.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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