Serious attacks on law enforcement officers would face federal penalties

People who knowingly assault covered officers and cause serious injury, or attempt that offense, could face up to 10 years in federal prison, fines, or both. Covered officers would be government or public agency employees legally authorized to perform or supervise criminal law enforcement or detention duties. The victim would have to be a federal officer, or the attack would need a connection to interstate or foreign travel or commerce, or interfere with economic activity the victim is engaged in at the time. Prosecution would require written approval from the attorney general or a designee. Prison terms up to life would be allowed if death results or the offense includes kidnapping, attempted kidnapping, or attempted killing.

The attorney general or a designee would have to approve each prosecution in writing. This requirement would cover prosecutions for these officer attacks. Federal officers and grand juries could still investigate without that approval. Approval would require finding that the state lacks authority, requests federal prosecution, or obtained a verdict or sentence that clearly leaves federal public safety interests unmet. Approval could also rest on finding that federal prosecution serves the public interest and is necessary to secure substantial justice.