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Criminal charges

assault on a police officer

The crime of assault varies from state to state (and under federal law), but is generally defined as intentionally putting another person in reasonable apprehension or fear of an imminent (immediate) harmful or offensive contact. The crime of assault may be committed even if there is no physical contact, as the criminal physical contact constitutes the separate crime of battery. In many states assaulting a police officer or peace officer who is performing official duties (such as making a lawful arrest) is a more serious offense—sometimes a felony.

In New Hampshire, assault is defined under RSA 631:2-a as an individual's attempt to cause or purposely, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another, or by physical menace, putting another in fear of imminent bodily injury. Notably, actual physical contact is not required for an act to be considered assault; the threat or attempt, if perceived as imminent, can suffice. New Hampshire law also distinguishes between simple assault and more severe forms such as aggravated assault, which may involve the use of a deadly weapon or result in serious bodily injury. Assaulting a law enforcement officer, as per RSA 631:2-b, is indeed treated as a more serious offense and can be charged as a felony, especially if the officer is engaged in the performance of official duties at the time of the assault.

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Criminal charges

assault on a police officer

Individual & Family Legal Plan

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New-Hampshire State Code

New-Hampshire State Code

Criminal charges

assault on a police officer

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