HR 1627 United States House · 118th Congress

Sergeant Steve Owen Defending Our Defenders Act

This bill adds a new section to federal law making murder of law enforcement officers a capital offense. It mandates death or life imprisonment for individuals who murder federal officers during official duties, or state/local officers when the crime involves interstate activity (like using a weapon that crossed state lines). Key provisions include specific aggravating factors considered for sentencing, such as ambush tactics, prior violent advocacy, or ties to extremist groups. The bill explicitly states it does not affect state court jurisdiction over such cases.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Mar 2023
Committee Review
Floor Vote
President
Introduced Mar 17, 2023 Last action Mar 17, 2023