Newport chief urges felony penalty for attempts to disarm officers; committee holds bill

Senate Bill 552, a proposed criminal offense aimed at persons who attempt to disarm peace officers, drew testimony March 25 from Chief Ryan Duffy of the Newport Police Department and others who said the law would address a prosecutorial gap.

Chief Duffy described an incident in Newport in 2023 in which a wedding guest twice tried to remove an officer’s firearm during a struggle; he told the committee that the outcome could have been fatal if the weapon had been taken. “I am advocating for this statute because it speaks to maintaining a nuanced level of safety for officers and the individuals that police come in contact with,” Duffy told the committee.

Duffy also cited national examples in the past year where attempts to disarm officers resulted in serious injury or death in multiple jurisdictions. The bill’s sponsor introduced the measure as a felony offense that would specifically address disarming attempts and other actions that deprive an officer of critical tools in the line of duty. Supporters said the bill includes protections for less-lethal devices and radios; some committee members suggested clarifying language that included body-worn cameras and other equipment.

The public defender’s office submitted written opposition; the committee held the bill for further study to allow refinement of language and to consider concerns raised about the list of covered items.

Why it matters: Attempting to remove an officer’s weapon poses an immediate public-safety risk; sponsors argue a specific felony will allow prosecutors to bring charges commensurate with the danger, while critics asked for careful drafting to avoid unintended consequences for other equipment.

Outcome: Senate Bill 552 held for further study.