843.31 Approaching a first responder with specified intent after a warning.
197 words·~1 min read·
/fl/title-xlvi/chapter-843/843-31·A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.
(1)As used in this section, the term:
(a)“First responder” includes a law enforcement officer as defined in s. 943.10 (1), a correctional probation officer as defined in s. 943.10 (3), a firefighter as defined in s. 784.07 (1), and an emergency medical care provider as defined in s. 784.07 (1).
(b)“Harass” means to willfully engage in a course of conduct directed at a first responder which intentionally causes substantial emotional distress in that first responder and serves no legitimate purpose.
(2)(a) It is unlawful for a person, after receiving a verbal warning not to approach from a person he or she knows or reasonably should know is a first responder, who is engaged in the lawful performance of a legal duty, to knowingly and willfully violate such warning and approach or remain within 25 feet of the first responder with the intent to:
1. Impede or interfere with the first responder’s ability to perform such duty;
2. Threaten the first responder with physical harm; or
3. Harass the first responder.
(b)A person who violates this subsection commits a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083 .