Moreno Introduces "Larry Henderson Act" to Increase Penalties for Assaulting Law Enforcement
Ohio’s freshman Republican Senator Bernie Moreno has introduced the "Larry Henderson Act," a bill designed to significantly increase the criminal penalties for individuals who harm law enforcement officers. The legislation is a direct response to the recent death of Hamilton County Sheriff’s Deputy Larry Henderson, who was killed in the line of duty earlier this month in Cincinnati, Ohio.
The "Larry Henderson Act" aims to amend existing federal law concerning assaults on law enforcement officials. Currently, the law stipulates that individuals who forcibly assault, resist, oppose, impede, intimidate, or interfere with a law enforcement officer engaged in their official duties can face imprisonment ranging from one to eight years, depending on the severity of the offense. Moreno’s proposed bill seeks to establish a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years for such crimes.
In addition to increasing the severity of penalties, the bill also establishes federal jurisdiction over these crimes as exclusive and preemptive. This means that in cases involving assaults on federal law enforcement officers, federal prosecution would supersede any state or local proceedings.
Senator Moreno emphasized the need for the legislation in a statement to Fox News Digital. "Enough is enough," he declared. "Anyone who assaults one of our men or women in blue needs to face severe consequences, period. Deputy Larry Henderson should be alive today, and that’s why I’m introducing legislation – in his honor – to protect our law enforcement officers."
Deputy Larry Henderson’s death occurred while he was directing traffic near the University of Cincinnati during a graduation ceremony. He was struck by a vehicle driven by Rodney Hinton, who has since been charged with aggravated murder. Prosecutors allege that Hinton intentionally struck Henderson shortly after Hinton’s 18-year-old son was shot and killed by officers after allegedly fleeing in a stolen car while armed.
The Ohio Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) has voiced strong support for the legislation, with President Jay McDonald stating that Hinton intentionally murdered a retired deputy who was working special duty at a graduation simply because he was a police officer.
Deputy Henderson was a 33-year veteran of the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), having served in numerous specialized units since 1991. His assignments included the dive team, HCPA SWAT, FBI Task Force Officer, and the HCSO Bomb Unit.
Hamilton County Sheriff Charmaine McGuffey praised Deputy Henderson’s contributions to the agency, particularly his role as a trainer. "In Deputy Henderson’s early tenure as a Sheriff’s Deputy, I recognized his talent for teaching and presentation," Sheriff McGuffey stated. "Larry began his journey as a Sheriff’s Office trainer early in his career. He developed an expertise and became an excellent trainer. Subsequently, he trained divisions of the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office that included hundreds of deputy sheriffs. His ability to relate to and touch officers’ lives was extraordinary. We will continue to honor Larry’s life of service."
The "Larry Henderson Act" reflects a growing concern among lawmakers and law enforcement officials regarding the safety and well-being of police officers. The increased penalties and federal jurisdiction provisions aim to deter violence against law enforcement and ensure that those who commit such acts are held accountable.
The bill’s introduction comes amid ongoing debates about police reform and accountability. While some advocate for stricter oversight and reduced police powers, others emphasize the need to support and protect law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line every day. The "Larry Henderson Act" falls squarely within the latter perspective, prioritizing the safety and security of those who serve in law enforcement.
The legislation’s prospects in Congress remain uncertain. It is likely to face scrutiny from both sides of the aisle, with some questioning the necessity of increased penalties and the potential for federal overreach. Supporters, however, will argue that the bill is a necessary measure to protect law enforcement officers and send a clear message that violence against them will not be tolerated.
The debate surrounding the "Larry Henderson Act" is expected to be intense, reflecting the broader divisions in American society regarding law enforcement and criminal justice reform. However, the bill’s supporters hope that the tragic death of Deputy Larry Henderson will serve as a catalyst for meaningful action to protect those who serve and protect our communities.
The bill’s impact, if enacted, could be significant. The mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years would dramatically increase the potential punishment for assaulting a law enforcement officer, potentially deterring such acts. The establishment of exclusive federal jurisdiction could also streamline prosecutions in certain cases, ensuring that federal law enforcement officers are protected by federal law.
However, critics may argue that the bill is overly punitive and could lead to unjust outcomes. They may also raise concerns about the potential for federal overreach into matters that are traditionally handled at the state or local level.
Ultimately, the fate of the "Larry Henderson Act" will depend on the outcome of the legislative process. The bill will need to be debated and voted on in both the Senate and the House of Representatives before it can be signed into law by the President.
Regardless of the bill’s ultimate fate, its introduction has already sparked an important conversation about the safety and security of law enforcement officers and the need for effective measures to protect them from harm. The legacy of Deputy Larry Henderson will undoubtedly continue to inspire efforts to support and protect those who serve in law enforcement.
