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Sponsors say HB372 will bar parole for those who kill peace officers and other first responders
Summary
At a first hearing on House Bill 372, sponsors recounted the killing of Hamilton County Deputy Larry Henderson and said the bill would remove parole as an option for aggravated murder of peace officers, prosecutors, corrections officers, first responders and military members; sponsors invited questions about possible scope expansions.
Chairman Thomas called House Bill 372 for its first hearing and Representative Abrams delivered sponsor testimony, recounting the May 2 death of Deputy Larry Henderson during traffic-control duties. Abrams said HB372 would ensure that those convicted of aggravated murder targeting peace officers, prosecutors, corrections officers, first responders or military members are not eligible for parole — leaving life without parole or the death penalty as the judicial outcomes currently allowed under Ohio law.
Abrams said the bill "will make sure that these families never have to go through this pain again," and framed the measure as a response to threats against those who risk public safety. He clarified that HB372 does not add the death penalty option where it did not previously exist; rather, it removes the possibility of parole in the specified categories.
Joint sponsor Representative Plummer emphasized a recent spike in attacks on officers and said the bill has broad public support in his outreach. Members asked whether the bill should be expanded to include elected officials; sponsors said they were open to discussing amendments and suggested coordination with judges and stakeholders.
No vote was taken during the first hearing. Sponsors asked for the committee's favorable consideration and said they would work with members on drafting adjustments if requested.
