Connecticut House Bill HB05341

Connecticut 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/25/14
• Refer: 2/25/14
• Report Pass: 3/28/14
• Refer: 4/9/14
• Report Pass: 4/15/14
• Engrossed: 4/23/14
• Report Pass: 4/25/14
• Chaptered: 5/20/14
• Enrolled: 5/21/14
• Passed: 6/6/14

Caption

An Act Concerning The Designation Of A Person Convicted Of Criminal Violation Of A Standing Criminal Protective Order As A Persistent Offender.

Impact

The bill would primarily change state law by altering how the legal system deals with repeat offenders of protective orders. Specifically, it stipulates that courts must impose greater penalties for those re-offending in related crimes, effectively moving to a stricter sentencing framework. This could lead to longer prison sentences for persistent offenders and may serve as a deterrent for those contemplating violating protective orders in the future.

Summary

House Bill 5341 aims to designate individuals convicted of violating a standing criminal protective order as 'persistent offenders'. This designation would lead to harsher penalties for repeat offenders of specific crimes such as assault, stalking, trespass, and harassment against family or household members. The bill intends to enhance the protections for victims and ensure that repeat offenders face a higher degree of accountability for their actions. If enacted, it would become effective on October 1, 2014, and apply to convictions entered on or after that date.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 5341 appears to be supportive, particularly from advocates for victims of domestic violence and family violence organizations. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary measure to enhance victim protection and discourage repeat offenses. There may be some concern from legal scholars or advocates about the implications of stricter sentencing guidelines, fearing that they could disproportionately affect certain populations or lead to overcrowding in correctional facilities.

Contention

While support for the bill exists, there are also points of contention regarding its practical application. Critics may argue that increasing penalties does not necessarily solve underlying issues related to domestic violence or effectively rehabilitate offenders. Additionally, there is a debate about the potential consequences of labeling someone as a 'persistent offender,' which could carry significant long-term implications for their ability to reintegrate into society. Questions remain about whether this approach would serve as a genuine deterrent or simply perpetuate a cycle of incarceration without addressing the root causes of these crimes.