Schmitt plans legislation to enhance penalties for crimes against first responders
Erika McGuire
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
Sen. Eric Schmitt says he will introduce legislation to enhance penalties for crimes against first responders after the stabbing death of a Kansas City paramedic.
Early Sunday, Kansas City firefighter-paramedic Graham Hoffman, 29, died in the line of duty after he was attacked while treating a patient. He was laid to rest Friday afternoon.
Shanetta Bossell’s charges include first-degree murder and armed criminal action in connection with Hoffman’s death, according to news station KMBC.
In a news release Friday, Schmitt said he will introduce legislation to increase federal penalties for those who murder first responders in the line of duty.
“First responders put their lives on the line each and every day to keep our communities safe. It’s time we stand up to ensure they are protected from those who wish to do them harm. This legislation, in honor of Graham, will help ensure our nation does just that,” Schmitt said.
Cole County EMS Chief Eric Hoy says their staff are required to complete four hours of operations/safety continuing education every two years to maintain their National Certification.
Staff are trained on physical restraint but it is a last rector to protect from harm.
“Our personnel are trained to administer medication to facilitate patient care on patient care on patients who present a direct harm to themselves or others,” Hoy said.
However, if a scene becomes unsafe Cole County EMS is trained to retreat from the area and await law enforcement to secure the scene.
“We’re reliant on our law enforcement partners and having really good communication, working with them closely to make sure any hazards are removed before people are put into the ambulance,” Hoy said.
A possible violent interaction with a patient can be hard to prepare for. Cole County Paramedic Dirk Protzmam has been with Cole County EMS said it comes down to paying attention to the signs.
“A lot of though experience, noticing people’s behaviors and mannerisms, if they won’t allow you to check in certain areas where typical weapons could be held thats a defiant indicator,” Protzmam said.
According to the Centers for Disease Control in 2020 ,16,900 EMS workers were treated for injuries on the job, with 3,000 due to violence.
“Sometimes that violence is driven from a mental illness or something a patient doesn’t have control over while we always welcome stiffer penalties and protections for out first responders, it also highlights the need for appropriate mental health services in our communities as well,” Hoy said.
Cole County EMS are issued ballistic vests, they are required to utilize them whenever responding to a call involving a weapon, However, they do not wear them for routine operations.
Staff are also not allowed to carry a weapon. .
Gov. Mike Kehoe ordered the Capitol dome and the Missouri Law Enforcement Memorial to shine blue at sunset on Friday and continue until sunrise on Sunday.
“The Missouri Capitol dome will shine blue this weekend as we honor and remember the law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice,” Kehoe said. “It takes great courage, strength, and commitment for law enforcement officers to put on their uniform each day knowing that their duty requires them to run toward the dangers that others flee. We have a responsibility to honor the fallen and ensure they are never forgotten.”
Annual ceremonies honoring fallen Missouri law enforcement officers will be held at the Missouri Law Enforcement Officers memorial on the north side of the Capitol.
A candlelight vigil will be held on Friday, and a memorial service will take place on Saturday.