Violent anti-police protesters who assault or impede law enforcement officers will now face up to 25 years in prison and $500,000 in fines under new legislation being introduced by Texas Congressman Tony Gonzales.
Key Takeaways
- Congressman Tony Gonzales’ Curbing Offenses on Policing Services (COPS) Act doubles prison time and fines for simple assaults on police officers
- The legislation specifically protects Border Patrol and ICE agents who have been targeted during violent protests
- Felony assaults with dangerous weapons, including fireworks, would be punishable by up to 25 years in prison and $500,000 in fines
- The bill responds to recent violent anti-ICE protests organized by leftist groups that injured officers and damaged vehicles
Strengthened Penalties for Attacks on Law Enforcement
President Trump’s administration is gaining strong support from congressional allies in the fight to protect law enforcement officers from the increasing wave of violence they face. Congressman Tony Gonzales (R-TX) has announced plans to introduce the Curbing Offenses on Policing Services (COPS) Act in the House of Representatives, significantly increasing the penalties for those who assault police officers, Border Patrol agents, or ICE officials. The legislation represents a strong response to the ongoing attacks against law enforcement that have plagued American cities in recent years, particularly those committed by anti-immigration activists and radical leftist groups.
“The chaos unleashed by rioters in Los Angeles this weekend is anything but a peaceful protest—it’s anarchy. Radical activists damaged Border Patrol and ICE vehicles while these agents were on duty, and as a result, injuries were reported,” said Congressman Tony Gonzales, Representative from Texas.
Three-Tiered Approach to Punishing Violence Against Officers
The COPS Act establishes a three-tiered system of enhanced penalties for different levels of assault against law enforcement officers. For simple assault, the legislation doubles the maximum jail time from one year to two years and increases potential fines from $100,000 to $200,000. Felony assaults that result in bodily injury would carry a maximum sentence of 10 years. The most severe category, felony assault with a dangerous or deadly weapon, would be punishable by up to 25 years in prison—increased from the current 20-year maximum—and fines would double from $250,000 to $500,000.
— Tom Glass (@tomgglass) June 4, 2025
Notably, the legislation explicitly defines “explosive materials,” including fireworks, as dangerous or deadly weapons when used against officers. This classification directly addresses tactics employed by anti-police protestors who have increasingly used fireworks and other incendiary devices to attack law enforcement personnel. The bill also targets those who interfere with officers performing their official duties, a provision aimed at countering radical activists who block ICE facilities or impede Border Patrol operations along the southern border.
Response to Organized Leftist Violence
The COPS Act comes in direct response to a series of violent anti-ICE protests organized by far-left groups, including the Party for Socialism and Liberation (PSL). These demonstrations have turned increasingly violent in several cities, with Los Angeles being a recent flashpoint where federal agents were attacked and their vehicles damaged. The legislation serves as both a practical and symbolic pushback against the sanctuary policies implemented by progressive local governments that hamper federal immigration enforcement and create environments where violence against officers is tolerated.
“It’s time to highlight a very clear message: if you harm a law enforcement officer, you’re going to face severe consequences,” said Congressman Tony Gonzales, Representative from Texas.
The Trump administration has consistently prioritized law enforcement safety and border security, and this legislation aligns perfectly with those priorities. By increasing penalties for assaults on police, Border Patrol, and ICE agents, the COPS Act creates real consequences for the violent agitators who have targeted these officers. The bill sends a clear message that law enforcement officers deserve protection and respect as they carry out their essential duties of maintaining public safety and securing our borders.
Warning to Sanctuary Cities and Radical Activists
Gonzales has positioned the COPS Act as a direct challenge to progressive local officials who implement policies that undermine federal law enforcement. The legislation not only increases penalties for individual offenders but also serves as a warning to sanctuary jurisdictions that enable and sometimes encourage resistance to federal immigration enforcement. With the full backing of the Trump administration, the bill represents a significant step toward restoring law and order in communities where radical anti-police sentiment has been allowed to flourish.
“This week, I will introduce the COPS Act in Congress to increase charges for anyone who assaults our law enforcement personnel or keeps them from performing their official duties. Let this be a warning to rioters or far-left officials who back sanctuary policies and let madness break out in their streets—harming or undermining our men and women in the line of duty will not be tolerated,” said Congressman Tony Gonzales, Representative from Texas.
As the COPS Act moves through Congress, it represents a concrete step toward fulfilling President Trump’s promise to restore respect for law enforcement and ensure that those who protect our communities and borders can do their jobs without facing violence and obstruction. The legislation stands in stark contrast to the permissive attitudes toward violent protests and resistance to immigration enforcement that characterized previous administrations and continue in progressive-controlled cities across America.
