SPRING VALLEY — Criminals convicted of committing violent acts against first responders could face up to three years in prison under a measure backed by state Rep. Frank Mautino that is making its way through the Illinois House.
“Emergency responders take incredible personal risks to keep our communities safe,” Mautino said. “It’s their job to save lives on a daily basis, and our laws should reflect their sacrifices and prioritize their safety.”
House Bill 3184, co-sponsored by Mautino, increases the category of the aggravated assault of an on-duty police officer, firefighter or emergency medical technician to a Class 4 felony, punishable by up to three years in prison and a $25,000 fine. Under current law, the aggravated assault of these emergency responders is a misdemeanor, carrying a penalty of no more than 364 days in prison and a $2,500 fine, a punishment Mautino thinks is not severe enough, especially considering that assaulting other correctional officers is already a felony.
“Deliberately assaulting a first responder could result in local residents in distress not getting immediate medical care or the help they need from police or firefighters. These can be life or death situations, so criminals who put first responders at risk need to be held accountable,” Mautino added. “By strengthening the laws to better protect those who protect us, we honor the work they do.”
House Bill 3184 passed the House Judiciary-Criminal Committee unanimously and awaits consideration by the full House.
Mautino represents the 76th District, which includes all or portions of Bureau, LaSalle, Livingston and Putnam counties.