AR HB1454

Adds definition of "informant" to Arkansas Code § 5-53-101 as a person who provides information to law enforcement to assist in solving or investigating an offense or apprehending a suspect.

Amends intimidating a witness offense (§ 5-53-109) to require knowingly threatening a witness with purpose "to" influence testimony, induce avoidance of legal process, or induce absence from proceedings; increases penalty to one felony classification lower than the underlying offense if the offense is Class B felony or higher for homicide or rape.

Modifies tampering offense (§ 5-53-110) to require knowledge when inducing another to testify falsely, withhold evidence, elude legal process, or absent themselves from proceedings; establishes Class C felony if person impairs or obstructs felony investigation, otherwise Class A misdemeanor.

Upgrades tampering with physical evidence (§ 5-53-111) from Class D to Class C felony if person impairs or obstructs prosecution or defense of a felony; upgrades otherwise provision from Class B to Class A misdemeanor.

Elevates retaliation against witness, informant, or juror (§ 5-53-112) and jury tampering (§ 5-53-115) from Class D to Class C felonies; clarifies informant definition and requires knowing conduct for these offenses.