Citing a desire to prevent the chaotic civil unrest and violence that is occurring in Minnesota from ever taking root in Alabama, State Sen. April Weaver (R-Brierfield) announced on Monday that she has filed legislation creating the new criminal offense of "Interference With A First Responder" across the state.
Under Weaver's legislation, the new crime of "Interference With A First Responder" occurs when an individual remains within 25 feet of a law enforcement officer, firefighter or emergency services personnel after being told to vacate an area while first responders are performing their duties.
"When our brave first responders are carrying out their duties, they shouldn't have to worry about zealous agitators or bad actors interfering of inciting trouble," Weaver said. "This bill makes it clear that when first responders instruct you to back off, refusing to do so will win you a free ride to jail in the back of a police cruiser while wearing a shiny pair of handcuffs."
To be charged with the offense, an individual must also impede or interfere with a first responder's ability to perform his or her duties; threaten a first responder with physical harm; or strike, kick, shove or otherwise make physical contact with a first responder.
The crime would be classified as a Class A misdemeanor, the highest class of misdemeanor in Alabama, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $6,000.
Weaver noted that "Interference With A First Responder" would not apply to the obstruction, impairment, or hindrance of the making of an arrest, which is already addressed in other sections of the Alabama Code.
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