OH SB366

Enacts section 2903.17 of the Revised Code to create a new crime of "assault by a law enforcement officer" with specific prohibitions on officer use of force.

Prohibits law enforcement officers from knowingly impeding breathing or circulation by applying pressure to the throat, neck, nose, or mouth causing serious physical harm.

Prohibits officers from using less than lethal force causing serious physical harm unless necessary to arrest someone or prevent physical harm to the officer or another person.

Prohibits officers from using lethal force causing serious physical harm unless necessary to prevent death or serious physical harm to the officer or another person.

Violations are classified as misdemeanor of the first degree for chokehold violations, felony of the fifth degree for improper less than lethal force, and felony of the first degree for improper lethal force.