S. 3089: Secure Takedown and Obstruction Prevention Act

The Secure Takedown and Obstruction Prevention Act, also known as the STOP Act, aims to enhance law enforcement's ability to respond to individuals who barricade themselves while trying to evade arrest. Here are the main components of the bill:

Purpose

The legislation is introduced in response to the increasing challenges and dangers that law enforcement officers face in their duties. It specifically addresses the situation where individuals barricade themselves to resist arrest, which can lead to dangerous confrontations, extended standoffs, and potential harm to officers, suspects, and bystanders.

Key Definitions

The bill establishes specific definitions crucial for understanding the new offense related to barricading:

• Barricade: Taking a position in a location that prevents federal law enforcement from having immediate access or refusing to exit or comply with orders from law enforcement officers attempting to apprehend them.
• Federal law enforcement officer: As defined in existing law.

Proposed Offense

The bill introduces a new offense concerning barricading during the evasion of arrest:

• It is unlawful for any person to engage in barricading while resisting arrest by a federal officer.
• Additionally, it is unlawful to aid or assist another person in such conduct.

Penalties

The bill outlines penalties for those found guilty of barricading during arrest evasion:

• A person may face a fine, imprisonment for up to 3 years, or both if convicted of the offense.
• If the violation involves serious physical harm, possession of a deadly weapon, or a third party who cannot safely leave, the penalties are increased to a fine, imprisonment for up to 5 years, or both.

Overall Impact

This legislation aims to provide greater legal tools for law enforcement to prevent hazardous situations arising from barricading during attempts to evade arrest. It reflects an effort to support federal officers in their duties and enhance public safety.

Relevant Companies

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