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Committee hears bill to strengthen penalties for threats to judges and public officials after 2023 assassination
Summary
HB 631 would increase penalties for people who threaten or attempt violence against judges and other public officials; sponsors cited rising threats and the 2023 murder of a Maryland judge as a key precedent. Prosecutors and bar associations urged passage citing deterrence and safety, while members probed sentencing utility and data on prosecutions.
A measure to raise penalties for violent threats directed at judges and other public officials drew testimony from prosecutors, judges and security experts on Feb. 10 as the House Judiciary Committee considered HB 631.
"House bill 631 would increase penalties for individuals who knowingly and willingly threaten to the life of, kidnap or cause physical injury to state or local public officials," Delegate Matthew J. Schindler said, citing the 2023 assassination of a…
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