Ohio House toughens penalties for attacks on first responders.

Bill to impose additional prison time now headed to Senate.

The Ohio House gave unanimous approval on Wednesday to a bill that would impose extra prison time for criminal offenders who assault firefighters, paramedics, members of the military or federal law enforcement officers.

The additional sanctions are already applied if the offender assaults an Ohio peace officer or prosecutor.

“There have been repeated incidences of disturbing attacks on those who have dedicated their lives to protect and serve our communities and our nation,” said state Rep. Dave Greenspan, R-Westlake, who is sponsoring the legislation. “This bill sends a strong message of support to those brave men and women who see us at our worst or in our greatest times of need and to those who protect and defend our freedoms and liberties.”

House Bill 38 calls for a mandatory prison sentence of three to 11 years if the first responder or military service member suffers serious physical harm in an assault carried out because of their profession. And it expands aggravated murder to include purposely causing the death of a first responder or member of the military.

The bill now goes to the Ohio Senate for consideration.

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