Violence

Capitol Police Officers File Civil Suit Against President-Elect, Campaign for Provoking Jan. 6 Violence

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WASHINGTON — Following the storming of the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, by a mob intent on disrupting the certification of President Joe Biden’s electoral win, eight Capitol Police officers are bringing a civil lawsuit against the then-president-elect and his campaign for their alleged roles in inciting the violence. Represented by the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, the officers claim they were assaulted, exposed to tear gas, and subjected to racial slurs by rioters who had been rallied by accusations of a stolen election. The legal action points directly to the rhetoric … Read more

New Hampshire Imposes Groundbreaking Laws to Elevate Protection Against Domestic and Sexual Violence

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CONCORD, N.H. — As the new year begins, New Hampshire has enacted several laws aimed at tackling issues related to domestic and sexual violence. With these groundbreaking measures drafted and enacted under the auspices of Gov. Chris Sununu, the state seeks enhanced protections particularly in the realms of housing for abuse victims, the prohibition of child marriage, and the regulation of sexually explicit deepfake content. The New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence has heralded these legal moves, noting that they reflect persistent bipartisan commitment to defending victims’ rights and increasing accountability for offenders. … Read more

California Tightens Laws Against Assaults on Emergency Room Workers Amid Rising Violence

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Sacramento, Calif. — In a move reflecting growing concerns over the safety of healthcare workers, California has enacted a new law scheduled to take effect in 2025 that intensifies the consequences for individuals convicted of assaulting emergency room personnel. This legislative change occurs amidst reports of increasing physical attacks against medical staff, highlighting a nationwide issue that jeopardizes worker safety in critical care environments. Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 977 in September, broadening the current legal framework to encompass more severe penalties, including extended jail time for perpetrators. Under this new mandate, sentences could … Read more

Missouri Lawmakers Tackle Surge in Youth Gun Violence Amid Economic Concerns

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JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Concerns are mounting among Missouri business groups that rising violent crime rates in the state’s urban areas may be stifling potential economic and tourism growth. As Missouri gears up for its legislative session, set to commence on January 8, 2025, nearly 50 firearm-related bills have been pre-filed, signaling a significant focus on gun control and crime prevention. Among the voices advocating for stricter gun laws is Rep. David Tyson Smith, a Democrat from Columbia. Smith is advocating for legislation that would prohibit the sale of automatic weapons to individuals under 21 … Read more