NY A10971

Creates new crime of "Assault in the Second Degree on a Police Officer or Peace Officer" as a Class C felony when a person uses an animal to obstruct a police or peace officer from performing lawful duties and causes physical injury

Removes police officers and peace officers from the list of protected individuals under existing Assault in the Second Degree statute (PL § 120.05(3)), establishing separate penalties for assaults on them

Elevates "Assault on a Peace Officer, Police Officer, Firefighter or Emergency Medical Services Professional" from a Class C felony to a Class B felony when serious physical injury is caused

Elevates "Aggravated Assault upon a Police Officer or Peace Officer" from a Class B felony to a Class A felony when serious physical injury is caused by deadly weapon or dangerous instrument

Takes effect on November 1st following the date the bill becomes law