Connecticut Senate Bill SB01181

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/2/23
• Refer: 3/2/23

Caption

An Act Concerning The Statute Of Limitations For Crimes Committed Against The Elderly.

Impact

If enacted, SB01181 would significantly alter the landscape of legal protection for elderly individuals by allowing for indefinite prosecution for certain criminal offenses committed against them. This extension is particularly relevant in cases of exploitation or abuse where victims may take time to come forward. The bill also emphasizes that the statute of limitations will apply retroactively to offenses committed prior to the bill's adoption, provided the existing statute of limitations had not yet expired as of the bill's effective date on October 1, 2023.

Summary

SB01181 is a legislative proposal aimed at revising the statute of limitations for crimes committed against elderly individuals. The bill seeks to eliminate the limitations on the timeframe for prosecuting these offenses, providing a more extended opportunity for legal action in cases involving crimes against this vulnerable group. It specifies that there shall be no limitation of time for prosecuting capital felonies and class A felonies, as well as any offenses involving sexual abuse if the victim was a minor at the time, thereby expanding the scope of prosecution for serious offenses.

Contention

Notably, the bill has sparked discussions regarding the balance between ensuring justice for elderly victims and the potential for legal challenges arising from retroactive applications of law. Opponents may argue that extending the statute of limitations without restrictions could open the door to prosecutorial overreach or unfair trials based on older evidence. However, proponents assert that this reform is essential to protect the rights and dignity of elderly victims who have faced exploitation and abuse, and who may have been hesitant to speak out in the past.