What is required for a conviction of felony assault in the 4th degree against a peace officer?

For a conviction of felony assault in the 4th degree against a peace officer, demonstrable bodily harm is required. This means that there must be some visible or noticeable physical damage resulting from the assault. Demonstrable bodily harm does not require the severity of injuries that would align with great or substantial bodily harm; instead, it focuses on the presence of physical evidence of harm, which could include bruising, abrasions, or other visible signs of injury.

This standard reflects the legal principle that even minor injuries, if they are visible or noticeable, can warrant more severe charges when the victim is a peace officer. It acknowledges the increased protections that the law provides to peace officers due to their role and the risks associated with their duties. Thus, in cases where demonstrable bodily harm is proven, it supports the seriousness of the offense and the need for accountability in assaults against those serving in law enforcement.

In contrast, the other options mention greater levels of injury, which are not the legal threshold required for this specific charge, or imply that no harm at all could justify the charge, which is not accurate in the context of this form of felony assault.