Criminals who try to run away from could face tougher penalties.
Legislation being introduced at the Capitol would make it a felony if an officer is injured while trying to catch a suspect who resists arrest. State Representative Chris Danou (D-Trempealeau), a sponsor of the bill, says it would make the penalty the same that a suspect would face if they deliberately battered an officer. Under current law, the fleeing suspect can only be charged with a misdemeanor.
Danou says any action that could hurt an officer should be considered a serious crime. He says officers can face more danger and serious injuries while trying to chase down a suspect, than they would in a face to face confrontation.
Danou is a former police officer from Trempealeau.
AUDIO: Andrew Beckett reports (MP3 1:02)
