Under Wisconsin law, resisting or obstructing an officer is classified as what?

• A. Class A misdemeanor
• B. Class B misdemeanor
• C. Felony
• D. Infraction

Answer: (A)

Resisting or obstructing an officer is classified as a Class A misdemeanor under Wisconsin law. The offense requires knowingly resisting or obstructing an officer in the lawful performance of duties, meaning the act is intentional and interferes with police work. This level of offense carries penalties that reflect its seriousness: up to 9 months in jail and fines up to $10,000, which is more severe than an infraction or simple misdemeanor. The key idea is that the conduct directly hinders an officer from performing official duties. Example: trying to pull away when an officer is attempting to handcuff a suspect. Note that more serious outcomes or circumstances (like use of a weapon or injury) can lead to enhanced charges, but the standard resisting or obstructing offense itself is a Class A misdemeanor.