Assault of a Peace Officer

Assaulting a peace officer (or a police officer) in Texas is a serious offense. The penalties for this crime can be severe, depending on the severity of the assault and whether the officer was actually injured. If you’re facing charges of assault against a peace officer, please don’t hesitate to contact a skilled Dallas County criminal lawyer from Spangler Law today.

What is Assault?

Under Texas law, assault is defined as “intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another, including the person’s spouse.” It can also include threatening another person with imminent bodily injury.

Assault Against a Dallas, Texas Peace Officer

The penalties for assaulting a peace officer are more severe than the penalties for simple assault. Under Texas law, assaulting a peace officer is a third-degree felony. This means that if you are convicted, you could face a prison sentence of 2 to 10 years and a fine of up to $10,000.

The penalties for assaulting a peace officer can be even more severe if the officer was actually injured. If the officer was seriously injured, you could be charged with a second-degree felony, which carries a prison sentence of 2 to 20 years and a fine of up to $10,000.

Different Levels of the Offense

The level of the offense of assaulting a police officer can vary depending on the circumstances. The following are the different levels of the offense:

• Third-degree felony: This is the most common level of assault on a peace officer. It is punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
• Second-degree felony: This level of assault on a peace officer is committed against a peace officer or judge while the officer or judge is lawfully discharging an official duty, or in retaliation or on account of an exercise of official power or performance of an official duty as a peace officer or judge. It is punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
• First-degree felony: This is the most serious level of assault on a peace officer. It is committed against a peace officer or judge while the officer or judge is lawfully discharging an official duty and causes serious bodily injury, or if the assault is committed by intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly impeding the normal breathing or circulation of the blood of the person by applying pressure to the person’s throat or neck or by blocking the person’s nose or mouth. It is punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

What to Do If You Are Charged with Assaulting a Peace Officer

If you are charged with assaulting a peace officer, it is important to speak to an attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand the charges against you and protect your rights.

The penalties for assaulting a peace officer are serious, but with the help of an attorney, you may be able to get the charges reduced or dismissed.

Contact Us

If you have been charged with assaulting a peace officer, please contact our office today. We will be happy to discuss your case with you and help you understand your options.