OH HB139

Adds two new felony assault scenarios for when the victim is a sports official: Division (C)(4)(e) creates a felony of the fifth degree for assault against a sports official during official duties if the offender has a prior conviction under the same provision, and Division (C)(4)(f) creates the same felony for assault committed in retaliation for an official action taken by the sports official.

Adds mandatory sentencing enhancements in Division (C)(11) requiring a mandatory fine of $1,500 and 40 hours of community service for first-degree misdemeanor assault against sports officials during official duties or in retaliation for official actions.

Defines "sports official" as any person paid or volunteering to enforce rules of a sports event as referee, umpire, linesperson, timer, scorekeeper, or similar role.

Defines "sports event" to include interscholastic or intramural athletic events at schools or universities, organized athletic activities sponsored by communities or nonprofits, and professional or semiprofessional events.

Clarifies that prosecution of sports official assault does not preclude prosecution under other assault statutes if elements are present, but prohibits being prosecuted for both assault and felonious assault based on the same conduct involving a sports official.