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Bill

A 1658

Requires a sentence of life imprisonment without parole for murder in the first degree, aggravated murder, and murder in the second degree

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Angelino and 10 co-sponsors

Bill A 1658 mandates life imprisonment without parole for first-degree, aggravated, and second-degree murder, enhancing public safety by removing offenders from society.

REFERRED TO CODES
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 1658

Summary of Bill A 1658

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: A 1658
  • Title: Requires a sentence of life imprisonment without parole for murder in the first degree, aggravated murder, and murder in the second degree
  • Status: Referred to Codes
  • Introduced Date: January 10, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 1658 aims to establish mandatory life imprisonment without the possibility of parole for individuals convicted of:
- Murder in the first degree
- Aggravated murder
- Murder in the second degree

The intent behind this legislation is to impose stricter penalties for serious violent crimes, thereby enhancing public safety and serving as a deterrent against such offenses.

Key Provisions

  • Mandatory Sentencing: The bill mandates that individuals found guilty of the specified murder charges receive a life sentence without parole. This removes judicial discretion in sentencing for these serious offenses.
  • Scope of Offenses: The bill specifically targets three categories of murder:
    • First-degree murder: Typically involves premeditated killing.
    • Aggravated murder: Often includes circumstances that elevate the severity of the crime, such as the murder of a law enforcement officer or multiple victims.
    • Second-degree murder: Generally involves intentional killing that is not premeditated.

Impact

  • Affected Individuals: The bill would primarily affect individuals convicted of the specified murder charges, ensuring they serve life sentences without the possibility of parole.
  • Judicial System: Courts would be required to implement these mandatory sentences, potentially leading to an increase in life sentences issued for these crimes.
  • Public Safety: Proponents argue that the bill would enhance community safety by ensuring that individuals convicted of the most serious violent crimes are permanently removed from society.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: As of January 10, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Codes Committee for further consideration.
  • Related Legislation: The bill is related to A 5747 from a prior legislative session, which may have addressed similar issues regarding sentencing for violent crimes.

Conclusion

Bill A 1658 represents a significant shift in the approach to sentencing for serious violent crimes in the jurisdiction. By mandating life imprisonment without parole for first-degree murder, aggravated murder, and second-degree murder, the bill seeks to enhance public safety and ensure that those who commit the most heinous acts face severe consequences. The bill is currently under review by the Codes Committee, and its future will depend on further legislative action.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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