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Assault on Queensland Police Officer
Committing an assault on a Queensland Police Officer is considered a significant criminal offence. Section 340(1)(b) of Queensland’s Criminal Code 1899 provides that any person who assaults, resists, or wilfully obstructs a police officer is guilty of the crime of serious assault. Serious assault charges carry harsher penalties than a common assault charge and can result in lengthy jail terms, so it’s imperative that you’re well informed and represented by an experienced legal team who are well-versed in the legislation.
The maximum penalty for a serious assault against a police officer is set out as follows:
- the offender bites or spits on the police officer or throws at, or in any way applies to, the police officer a bodily fluid or faeces;
- the offender causes bodily harm to the police officer;
- the offender is, or pretends to be, armed with a dangerous or offensive weapon or instrument—14 years imprisonment; or otherwise—7 years imprisonment.
There are several possible defences that may be able to be applied, depending on the circumstances of the assault. Engaging a lawyer to represent you in fighting the charges means you’ll have a professional on your side who is able to advise you on the potential success or otherwise of any defences that may apply.
Smith Criminal Law are the best criminal lawyers on the Sunshine Coast. Our team have extensive criminal law knowledge and will be able to put in place the appropriate strategies to achieve an outcome that is in your best interests. We have the requisite expertise required to appear on your behalf on court dates, as well as years of skilled experience in negotiating with the Prosecution. Contact our office today.