PROVIDENCE, R.I. — The Rhode Island Senate passed a bill Wednesday that would make disarming a peace officer a federal offense, escalating penalties for acts against law enforcement during confrontations. The measure, which now moves to the state House, aims to address growing concerns about officer safety amid nationwide debates over policing tactics.
The legislation defines ‘peace officers’ as sworn law enforcement personnel and extends federal jurisdiction to cases where suspects attempt to remove or seize an officer’s firearm, taser, or other defensive equipment. Analysts note the bill aligns with similar efforts in at least six other states since 2023, though Rhode Island’s version includes broader provisions covering all federal and state law enforcement personnel.
‘This sends a clear message that attacks on those who protect our communities won’t be tolerated,’ said a Senate Judiciary Committee staffer speaking on background. Court records show 14 documented disarming attempts against Rhode Island officers since 2022, with three resulting in injuries.
Civil rights groups have raised constitutional concerns. A coalition including the ACLU of Rhode Island argues the bill could discourage legitimate oversight of police conduct. ‘Creating special protected classes under federal law sets dangerous precedents,’ said a policy director from the organization who requested anonymity pending formal testimony.
The bill’s advancement comes as FBI data shows a 7% national increase in assaults against officers in 2025. If passed, Rhode Island would become the first New England state with such a law. Legal experts suggest the measure could face challenges under the Tenth Amendment’s state sovereignty provisions.