What is the legal consequence of disarming an officer during an altercation?

Disarming a police officer during an altercation is considered a serious offense primarily because it poses a significant risk to the officer's safety and public safety. The act of taking a weapon from a law enforcement officer shows an intention to use or control that weapon against the officer or for other unlawful purposes.

This severe misconduct is classified as a felony, which is a more serious crime than a misdemeanor or infraction. Felonies typically carry harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences and the possibility of more severe fines. The conviction for such a crime reflects the gravity of the act, as it directly undermines law enforcement and order.

The classification as a felony also reflects the societal consensus that disarming a police officer is not just a violation of law but an affront to the law enforcement system, warranting a stringent legal response.