Michigan Criminal Lawyers Blog
On Friday January 23, a 55-year-old man allegedly shot a Flint Township police officer after he was stopped for a traffic violation. That man, who has not been named pending his arraignment, is now facing charges of resisting and obstructing a police officer and carrying a concealed weapon, according to a news report at Mlive.com.
The incident occurred at approximately 10:30 p.m. at the Hometown Inn in the 3200 block of Miller Road. According to reports, the officer attempted to take the man into custody on multiple misdemeanor warrants, when the two became involved in a scuffle that resulted in the suspect pulling a gun before firing on the officer. The bullet struck the officer, who then called for backup. The injured officer was continuing to recover three days later, according to Flint Township Lt. James Baldwin. The suspect was also injured by return gunfire of the officer and backup officers who responded to the scene.
The officer who was injured and hospitalized works as a patrol officer, and has been with the force for two years.
Although Flint has a high violent crime rate, calls for an officer down are rare in the area, according to Genesee County Sheriff Robert Pickell.
In Michigan, those convicted of carrying a concealed weapon may face up to five years in prison and/or a $2,500 fine if convicted. In addition, a conviction for resisting and obstructing a police officer may result in up to two years in prison along with substantial fines, probation costs, and more. When an officer is injured or killed, the consequences become far more serious.
Under Michigan Penal Code 750.81d, resisting and obstructing an individual who the offender knows or has reason to know is performing his/her duties and that results in bodily injury requiring medical attention is a felony offense that may leave the offender facing up to four years in prison, along with fines of up to $5,000.
No matter how you look at it, the criminal penalties for these felony crimes are serious and life-changing. Not only will someone found guilty lose his/her freedom, a conviction will result in a permanent criminal records, and likely ruin of the individual’s reputation and career.
Regardless of the crime you have been accused of, consult with a skilled Michigan criminal defense attorney who will work vigorously to protect you from a conviction, work to have charges dismissed when possible, or help determine the best legal option in an effort to reach a positive outcome. It is vital you take action immediately to protect your legal rights and freedom.