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PS 370

“Para enmendar el Artículo 284 de la Ley 146-2012, según enmendada, conocida como “Código Penal de Puerto Rico”, a los fines de añadir una pena mayor si el delito es cometido mientras un agente del orden público se encuentra ejerciendo funciones en una manifestación pública.”

2025-2028 Session

Puerto Rico bill proposes harsher criminal penalties for offenses against police officers during public protests, balancing officer safety against potential restrictions on demonstration rights.

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Bill Summary · PS 370

Legislative bill overview

Bill PS 370 proposes amending Article 284 of Puerto Rico's Penal Code (Law 146-2012) to impose enhanced criminal penalties for offenses committed against law enforcement officers while they are performing duties during public demonstrations or protests. The amendment would create a more severe sentencing tier specifically for crimes targeting police during these public gatherings.

Why is this important

This legislation directly affects the balance between protecting public safety personnel and preserving citizens' constitutional rights to protest. It has implications for how Puerto Rico's criminal justice system handles violent incidents during demonstrations, potentially influencing both law enforcement tactics and protest dynamics on the island.

Potential points of contention

  • First Amendment concerns: Critics may argue that enhanced penalties for crimes during protests could have a chilling effect on legitimate political assembly and expression, creating a two-tiered justice system based on context rather than conduct.
  • Scope and definition ambiguity: The bill's language regarding what constitutes "performing functions" during demonstrations and how "manifestations" are defined could lead to inconsistent application and potential abuse in enforcement.
  • Public safety vs. protest rights: Law enforcement advocates support officer protection during volatile situations, while civil liberties groups contend that enhanced penalties should depend on offense severity and intent, not merely the protest context in which an offense occurs.

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

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