“My thoughts and prayers are with the Kirk and Hortman families and any person who has fell victim to political violence. Political violence is unacceptable in all circumstances — whether directed at elected officials, staff, journalists, or activists peacefully exercising their First Amendment rights," said Rep. Jack Daniels, R-New Franklin, whose new bill with Rep. Josh Williams, R-Sylvania, is now awaiting a committee assignment.
According to a press release, the bill contains two major tenets. First, it would elevate politically motivated murders to be classified as aggravated murder, which would carry a mandatory life sentence without parole and make the crime eligible for the death penalty.
Second, it would create a “political motivation” specification, which can be added to violent felonies. The specification would add a 10-year mandatory sentence, if the accused were to be found guilty.
“We must honor Charlie’s memory not with silence, but with action,” said Williams. “Violence based on political beliefs is a direct threat to our democracy, and this legislation ensures that such violence is punished to the fullest extent of the law.”
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Avery Kreemer can be reached at 614-981-1422, on X, via email, or you can drop him a comment/tip with the survey below.
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