GOP Senator Proposes Tougher Penalties for Assaulting Police Officers Following Tragic Death

FIRST ON FOX: Ohio’s newly elected GOP Senator Bernie Moreno has unveiled a legislative proposal aimed at heightening criminal penalties for assaults against police officers. This initiative comes in the wake of the tragic death of a sheriff’s deputy in Cincinnati earlier this month while on duty.

The proposed legislation, known as the Larry Henderson Act, seeks to amend current law by imposing stiffer penalties on individuals who forcibly assault, resist, oppose, impede, intimidate, or interfere with law enforcement officers engaged in their official duties. Under the existing framework, offenders face between one to eight years in prison, contingent on the severity of the crime.

However, Moreno’s bill suggests raising the mandatory minimum sentence dramatically to 20 years, reflecting a serious commitment to protecting those who serve in law enforcement.

This legislation also aims to establish exclusive federal jurisdiction over such offenses, effectively overriding state or local prosecutions in cases involving federal officers.

Moreno expressed his determination with the statement, “Enough is enough,” during an interview with Fox News Digital.

He asserted, “Anyone who assaults one of our men or women in blue needs to face severe consequences, period. Deputy Larry Henderson should be alive today, and that’s why I’m introducing legislation – in his honor – to protect our law enforcement officers.”

The bill honors the memory of Hamilton County Sheriff’s Deputy Larry Henderson, who tragically lost his life after being struck by a vehicle while directing traffic at a graduation ceremony near the University of Cincinnati.

Authorities have charged a suspect, Rodney Hinton, with attempted murder, alleging that he intentionally ran over Henderson shortly after an incident in which Hinton’s son was shot and killed by police following a pursuit in a stolen car.

Hamilton County Fraternal Order of Police President Jay McDonald condemned the actions of Hinton Jr., describing the incident as an intentional act of murder against a respected officer who was simply performing his duties.

Deputy Henderson had dedicated 33 years to the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, serving in various specialized roles since 1991, including the dive team, SWAT operations, and as a Task Force Officer for the FBI.

In a heartfelt tribute, Hamilton County Sheriff Charmaine McGuffey reflected on Henderson’s contributions, stating, “In Deputy Henderson’s early tenure as a Sheriff’s Deputy, I recognized his talent for teaching and presentation. Larry began his journey as a Sheriff’s Office trainer early in his career and developed an expertise that made him an outstanding instructor.”

She continued, “His ability to relate to and touch officers’ lives was extraordinary. We will continue to honor Larry’s life of service.”

This legislative move highlights the ongoing discussions around police safety and accountability across the United States. As communities grapple with crime and public safety, Moreno’s bill seeks not only to deter violence against law enforcement but also to promote a culture of respect and support for those on the front lines of public safety.

The landscape of policing in America is complex, and this proposed legislation is a response to the calls for stronger protections for officers who often face life-threatening situations on the job. Advocates for the bill argue that law enforcement professionals must have robust legal support as they perform their essential duties.

Furthermore, Moreno’s proposal could set a precedent for similar legislation in other states, potentially contributing to a nationwide movement aimed at enhancing the safety and welfare of police officers. As law enforcement agencies and communities consider these changes, the discussion will undoubtedly continue to evolve in the coming months.

This is not the first time legislation surrounding police conduct and protections has gained traction. Various states are exploring similar measures, reflecting a growing recognition of the high-risk nature of police work and the need for legal frameworks that afford officers adequate safeguards.

The Larry Henderson Act not only seeks to honor the memory of a fallen officer but also serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those in law enforcement every day. Advocates hope that this proposed law will resonate with communities across Ohio and the nation, fostering dialogue around the protection and respect for police officers.

With the introduction of the Larry Henderson Act, Senator Bernie Moreno aims to ignite a much-needed conversation around police safety, highlighting the critical role that law enforcement plays in maintaining public order and safety.

Fox News Digital’s Audrey Conklin contributed to this report