Capitol News

State Representative Mike Mueller led the Michigan House in passing a measure aimed at increasing penalties for those who attempt to disarm law enforcement officers. The legislation, supported by Mueller, would raise the maximum penalty for forcibly taking a firearm from a police or corrections officer from 10 years to 15 years in prison.

Mueller, a Republican from Linden and retired sheriff’s deputy, highlighted a discrepancy in current law. He said that individuals convicted of unarmed robbery could face harsher punishment than those attempting to disarm an officer. The proposed change seeks to address this issue.

“Anyone who attacks an officer and tries to take their weapon has the intent to kill them,” Mueller said. “When a suspect reaches for an officer’s gun, it’s an attempt to turn the officer’s own weapon against them. We owe it to our law enforcement officers to treat that threat with the seriousness it deserves.”

Drawing on his personal experience in law enforcement, Mueller recounted facing two such incidents during his career. “As someone who’s been in that situation, I can tell you it’s one of the most dangerous moments an officer can face,” he said. “My goal is to send a clear message that we will not tolerate violent criminals endangering the lives of the men and women who protect our communities.”

The legislative package, known as House Bills 5079-5080, now moves on to the Senate for further review.