STOP Act

Summary

Creates a new federal crime for "barricading oneself during arrest evasion." The bill defines what counts as a barricade against a federal law enforcement officer, makes it a crime to barricade while forcibly resisting arrest or to help someone else do so, and sets penalties up to 3 years in prison (or up to 5 years for aggravated cases involving serious risk of harm, weapons, or trapped third parties).

• Creates a new federal crime for "barricading oneself during arrest evasion."
• Defines "barricade" as blocking immediate access and refusing orders when one knows an officer is attempting arrest.
• Applies to actions against federal law enforcement officers using the federal definition of such officers.
• Makes it illegal to barricade while forcibly resisting arrest or to assist someone who does.
• Standard penalty is up to 3 years in prison and/or a fine.
• Aggravated penalty up to 5 years applies if serious harm is risked, a deadly weapon is involved or third parties are trapped.
• Covers attempts and aiding others in barricading.
• Does not create new funding or authorize programs; it adds a criminal prohibition.