What does the statutory definition of assault on a government employee include?

The statutory definition of assault on a government employee specifically encompasses actions directed at a government official while they are actively performing their duties. This reflects the legal recognition of the unique role that government employees, such as law enforcement officers, hold in maintaining public order and safety. The law is designed to protect these individuals from assaults that occur in the course of their work, as such acts can undermine the effectiveness of governmental functions and public trust in the enforcement of laws.

This distinction is vital because it reinforces accountability and legal protections for those engaged in essential public service roles. Therefore, any act of violence or threat directed toward a government employee while they are conducting their official duties is considered more severe due to the implications on public safety and governance. This is why the correct answer is a representation of the precise legal framework governing assaults on government employees.