Michigan Legislator Wants Tougher Penalties on Criminals Who Disarm Police

Michigan State Rep. Mike Mueller (R-51st District) introduced a bipartisan plan last week to increase the penalty for criminals who disarm — or attempt to disarm — a police officer.

Mueller said a criminal who commits an unarmed robbery would currently be punished more severely than an individual who attempts to disarm a police officer. His legislation would change that.

“I find it troubling that someone faces a stiffer penalty for committing an unarmed robbery than using force or violence to take possession of an officer’s duty weapon,” Mueller said. “Punishments must fit the crime.”

Mueller, who recently retired after 19 years as a Livingston County sheriff’s deputy, speaks from experience. Suspects attempted to disarm him on two separate occasions during the course of his career, MyFenton.com reports.