Arizona Law Increases Penalties for Crimes Committed While on Release

Phoenix, Arizona – Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) 13-708 has been updated to impose stricter penalties for individuals who commit new offenses while on release from previous convictions. This legislation specifically addresses scenarios where a person is on pretrial release, bond, probation, parole, work furlough, or community supervision.

The updated statute mandates more severe consequences for crimes committed during a period of release. For instance, if an individual convicted of a dangerous felony commits another dangerous offense while on release, their sentence for the new crime must be at least the presumptive prison term for that offense. Release eligibility is significantly curtailed until the full sentence is served.

The law further targets serious and dangerous offenses. If a person commits a dangerous offense while on release or having escaped from confinement for a serious offense, the court is required to impose the maximum sentence authorized for the new crime. In such cases, any existing release status is likely to be revoked, and the new sentence will typically run consecutively to any prior sentence.

AZ Defenders, a criminal defense firm in Arizona, has provided analysis of ARS 13-708, highlighting its implications for defendants. The firm emphasizes that the law aims to increase accountability and deter reoffending among individuals already under legal supervision or release.

Furthermore, ARS 13-708 addresses offenses committed by individuals who have escaped from confinement. The penalties in these situations can be equally severe, with courts having discretion to increase sentences if specific aggravating circumstances are present.