Bill > HB1492

This bill increases the penalties for impersonating a federal law-enforcement officer in Virginia. Specifically, it elevates the offense from a Class 1 misdemeanor (a less serious crime) to a Class 6 felony (a more serious crime) for a first offense. For repeat offenders, the penalty for impersonating a federal officer is raised from a Class 6 felony to a Class 5 felony. Furthermore, if someone impersonates a federal law-enforcement officer while wearing a facial covering, which is defined as anything that hides a substantial portion of the face to conceal identity, it becomes a Class 5 felony for the first offense and a Class 4 felony for subsequent offenses. These changes aim to deter individuals from falsely claiming to be federal agents, a crime that can undermine public trust and safety.

Justice, Military Affairs and Security

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HB1492