Aggravated Assault: The High Cost of Harming a Police Officer
Aggravated assault charges are assault charges that involved “aggravated factors” which elevated a Misdemeanor to a Felony. One aggravating factor that will raise a misdemeanor to a felony assault is if the offense was against a police officer. These types of charges carry long term prison sentencing and exorbitant fines. Conviction for this offense is egregiously pursued by the State of Arizona and Prosecution. Felony Assault against a Police Officer A.R.S. § 13-1204 (A)
A person is guilty of aggravated assault if they commit assault as defined in A.R.S. § 13-1203
- Assault, and knows or has reason to know that the victim is a police officer, or peace officer professionally engaged in their official duties; and
- A person causes serious physical harm or injury to the officer; or
- A person commits the assault by any means of force that causes temporary but substantial disfigurement, temporary but substantial loss or impairment, body organ or part or a fracture of any body part; of the officer; or
- A person uses a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument against the officer; or
- A person takes or attempts to gain control of a police officer’s firearm or other weapon.
Penalties for Felony Assault
Charges for Felony Assault may range from a Class 6 felony to a Class 2 felony which is more severe. The only charges higher than Class 2 are Class 1 felonies which are reserved for the most serious of crimes, homicide.
Depending on the seriousness of the assault, and number of offenses, and other factors, sentencing may include prison terms of 1.5 to 3 years for a Class 6 felony; and 7 to 21 years in prison for a Class 2 felony.
Fines for conviction may be ordered as high as $150,000.00, plus victim restitution, costs; fees; assessments, counseling, probation or parole; community service; and other harsh penalties.
If convicted, Felony Assault or Aggravated Assault Penalties can include lengthy prison sentences, long term felony criminal records that will follow you for a lifetime, exorbitant fines, fees, counseling, restitution to the victim, adverse impacts on your job and future job opportunities, negative impacts on your ability to get credit or loans in the future and any other punishments the Tempe court determines is necessary and appropriate.
Criminal Defense Attorney Felony Assaults Phoenix AZ It is imperative to consult an experienced criminal defense attorney if you face aggravated assault charges. You can discuss your matter, and they will provide you with options for defense. If retained, they will protect your rights; make sure you are treated fairly; defend your charges; and look for evidence in your favor. They will represent you through the proper channels of the criminal justice system. There may be defenses that can be used, could lead to dismissal of charges; reduction in penalties or other favorable outcomes. For charges of this serious nature you should retain qualified legal representation as early as possible so they may begin working on your defense. This will also help you to avoid any unintended self-incrimination that could harm your case.
Resource Links:
Arizona Revised Statutes Law Office of James Novak – Assault Laws and Penalties
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