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HB 1441

Criminal Offenses - As introduced, increases the penalty for criminal impersonation of a law enforcement officer from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class E felony if the offense occurs while the defendant is committing or attempting to commit a crime of violence. - Amends TCA Title 38; Title 39 and Title 40.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Shaundelle Brooks

Upgrades impersonating law enforcement from misdemeanor to Class E felony when committed during crimes of violence, increasing penalties and deterrence in Tennessee.

Action Def. in s/c Criminal Justice Subcommittee to 3/25/2026
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Bill Summary · HB 1441

Legislative bill overview

HB 1441 enhances penalties for impersonating law enforcement officers in Tennessee by elevating the offense from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class E felony when the impersonation occurs during or in conjunction with a crime of violence. The bill modifies criminal statutes across three sections of Tennessee Code Annotated to establish this graduated sentencing structure based on context.

Why is this important

Impersonating law enforcement while committing violent crimes creates compounded public safety risks—offenders gain victim compliance and authority through deception while perpetrating serious harm. This enhancement targets a specific criminal tactic that exploits public trust in law enforcement, potentially deterring criminals from adding this aggravating factor to violent offenses.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional clarity: The bill's effectiveness depends on how "crime of violence" is defined in Tennessee law; ambiguous boundaries could create prosecution inconsistencies or legal challenges
  • Sentencing proportionality: Critics may argue that Class E felony status (typically 1-6 years imprisonment) represents a significant leap from misdemeanor status and may warrant judicial discretion rather than mandatory enhancement
  • Prosecutorial discretion: The enhancement could incentivize plea bargaining pressures, where prosecutors leverage the felony charge to extract guilty pleas on the underlying violent crime

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

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