Provides an enhanced penalty for armed robbery or attempted armed robbery of a drivers-sales worker. (gov sig)
The bill seeks to amend the existing Louisiana law on armed robbery, which currently prescribes a minimum imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum of 99 years for armed robbers. With SB131 in effect, those who target drivers-sales workers would face a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years for armed robbery and 20 years for attempted armed robbery. Proponents argue that the bill would deter criminal acts against this group of workers and enhance their safety while performing their job duties, thereby promoting a safer work environment.
Senate Bill 131, introduced by Senator Bishop during the 2017 Regular Session, aims to impose enhanced penalties for armed robbery and attempted armed robbery when the crime is directed against drivers-sales workers during their delivery routes. Under this proposed legislation, offenders would face imprisonment at hard labor for double the standard mandatory minimum sentence for armed robbery, without the possibility of parole, probation, or suspension. This change recognizes the specific vulnerabilities of drivers-sales workers who often operate in open and accessible locations, making them potential targets for such crimes.
The sentiment surrounding SB131 appears to be generally supportive among lawmakers and stakeholders concerned with worker safety. Advocates for the bill emphasize the importance of protecting workers who are often at risk during their deliveries, and they view the enhanced penalties as a necessary response to rising crime rates in delivery services. However, there may also be some concerns regarding the broader implications of mandatory sentencing statutes, including potential challenges around judicial discretion and the impacts on prison populations.
Despite the supportive sentiment, some criticisms may arise concerning the bill's potential consequences on the criminal justice system. Critics might argue that mandatory penalties could lead to overcrowding in prisons and limit judicial discretion regarding individual cases, which could disproportionately affect certain populations. Nonetheless, proponents maintain that the specific nature of crimes against drivers-sales workers warrants such a focused approach to penalizing offenders, considering the unique risks associated with their profession.