
Arizona legislators are taking a stand against group assaults with a new bill seeking to enhance penalties for such crimes, named in memory of Preston Lord, a 16-year-old from Queen Creek who suffered a brutal death at a Halloween party, as reported by FOX 10 Phoenix. House Bill 26-11, also known as Preston's Law, proposes to raise the offense from a class six felony to a more severe class four felony when an assault involves two or more accomplices.
State Representative Matt Gress, alongside Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell, is pushing for the legislation which in honor of Preston, seeks to address a growing trend of organized violence that they say represents a more dangerous threat due to the mob mentality involved, which significantly increases the danger to the victim and thus, the offenders should face a punishment that reflects the seriousness of their actions, as per a statement obtained by 12 News.
"The proposed legislation adds language to the current law that if you commit an assault and are aided by two or more accomplices, the charge will be a class four felony," Mitchell was quoted in an interview with FOX 10 Phoenix. This change not only increases the severity of the charge but also eliminates the possibility of the felony being reduced to a misdemeanor.
Expressing support for the legislative proposal Preston's parents accompanied Gress during the announcement, sharing their belief that stronger laws could prevent future tragedies and preserve the hope, life, and potential of young individuals facing similar threats, according to Autumn Curiel's statement to 12 News. If passed, the bill would imply a presumptive sentence of two and a half years for those convicted under the new classification. Before becoming law, HB2611 will need to progress through the legislative channels, with the Judiciary Committee up next to review.