Bill > SB160

This bill, the "Back the Badge Act of 2017", makes several changes to the Georgia Juvenile Code and the state's criminal laws related to offenses against public safety officers: The bill expands the superior court's exclusive original jurisdiction to include the trial of any child aged 13-17 who is alleged to have committed aggravated assault or aggravated battery upon a public safety officer. It also clarifies the definition of a Class A designated felony act in light of these jurisdictional changes. The bill adds new definitions to the criminal code, including terms like "public safety officer" which encompasses various law enforcement, correctional, and emergency personnel. It increases the penalties for aggravated assault and aggravated battery committed against public safety officers, including mandatory minimum sentences. Additionally, the bill increases the penalty for obstructing or hindering law enforcement and other public safety officers in the performance of their duties. It also revises provisions related to riots in penal institutions. Finally, the bill increases the lump sum payment for death or organic brain damage suffered in the line of duty by certain public safety personnel from $100,000 to $150,000.