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How and Why Does Battery Against a Police Officer Differ?

Battery against a police officer in Georgia is a serious criminal offense that results in potentially severe penalties.

Disagreements with others can quickly devolve into physical altercations. Regardless of the circumstances or the extent of the harm done, you could find yourself facing serious criminal charges as a result. Allegations of battery in Gwinnett County could leave you facing heavy fines and a lengthy jail sentence. These charges and penalties are even more severe when you are accused of committing battery against a police officer.

Assault and Battery Crimes in Gwinnett County

Assault and battery are two common types of crimes in Georgia that result from disagreements and disputes with others. Under the Georgia Code, assault involves an attempt to commit a violent injury to another or putting them in a position in which they could reasonably expect to suffer harm. Battery, on the other hand, involves actually causing physical harm to another or intentionally making contact in an insulting or provoking way.

Both simple assault and simple battery are considered misdemeanor crimes in Gwinnett County. A conviction on either charge could result in fines of up to $1,000 and up to a one-year jail sentence, in addition to possible probation and payment of restitution to the victim. However, depending on the extent of harm done and the individual targeted in an assault or battery crime, your penalties could significantly increase. Aggravated assault and battery is a felony charge that could result in additional fines and anywhere between five and 20 years in prison.

Battery Involving a Police Officer

You could face aggravated battery charges in the Gwinnett County Criminal Court as a result of altercations with a vulnerable individual, such as a pregnant woman, a family member, a public school employee, sports officials, or a member of law enforcement. This includes:

When the battery does involve law enforcement officials and occurs during the course of their official duties, the penalties you face are likely to be more severe. Depending on the extent of harm done, you could face as long as 25 years behind bars. You could also be charged with additional crimes, such as obstruction and resisting arrest. Each of these carries additional criminal penalties. 

Request A Consultation with Our Gwinnett County Criminal Defense Attorneys

Police and state prosecutors take a tough stance on crimes committed against law enforcement officials. In many cases, they may try to make an example of the person charged as a way of discouraging others from similar types of behavior. As a result, you can expect them to aggressively pursue criminal charges and the maximum penalties allowed by law.

To protect yourself in this situation, it is important to get our experienced Norcross criminal defense attorney on your side. At Zimmerman & Associates, we take the legal actions needed to protect your rights. Call or contact our office online to request a consultation today.