After councilman was stomped on sidewalk, Alabama bill would make assaulting politicians a felony

Assault on Councilman Sparks Push for Felony Protection for Politicians in Alabama

A violent political altercation on a Bay Minette sidewalk has sparked legislative efforts to make assaults on politicians a felony in Alabama.

The Breaking Point

On September 3, Bay Minette City Councilman Matt Franklin was viciously attacked by attorney Harry Still, who threw him to the ground and stomped on him over a dispute tied to local city politics. This assault left Franklin injured and led to Still's misdemeanor conviction, igniting a push for stronger legal repercussions.

Beneath the Surface

In response, Alabama State Sen. Chris Elliott introduced Senate Bill 20, aiming to elevate assaults on public officials to Class C felonies, punishable by up to 10 years in jail. The bill targets those in vulnerable public roles, expanding legal protection to include not only politicians but also health care professionals, pharmacists, and social workers.

The Ripple Effect

The proposal has sparked debate, with some legislators warning that overprotecting government officials might distance them from the populace, while others fear unwarranted privilege. Despite mixed reactions, the bill’s supporters stress the need for heightened safety for those whose jobs inherently place them in harm's way.