Sexton Including Sentencing Reform In Legislative Package

House Speaker Cameron Sexton leading legislation this session that improves transparency and truth in sentencing.

Criminals would serve 100 percent of sentences for an additional 14 violent offenses. Sexton said parole will also not be possible.

“We’re going to look at truth in sentencing again for aggravated, especially aggravated crimes and second-degree murder,” Sexton said. “As always, there’s certain crimes that are so heinous that the person doesn’t deserve good credit and parole.”

These crimes include aggravated assault resulting in death, attempted first-degree murder with serious bodily injury, second-degree murder, aggravated vehicular homicide, aggravated kidnapping, especially aggravated kidnapping, aggravated robbery, aggravated burglary, aggravated arson, aggravated child abuse, aggravated child neglect or endangerment, carjacking, and possessing or employing a firearm during a dangerous felony among other types of violent crimes.

Sexton also pushing the Transparency in Sentencing for Victims Act. The legislation requires courts to place on the record estimated number of years and months served before a criminal is eligible for parole.

Sexton said this is important because not every crime in our state fits within truth in sentencing guidelines. State Representative Bud Hulsey will carry the bill on behalf of Sexton.

“Chairman Hulsey’s extensive experience in law enforcement and his dedication to victims and their families make him the ideal person to guide this bill through our committee process in the House,” Sexton said in a press release. “It will ensure violent criminals serve their entire sentence after a guilty verdict, not just a portion. I appreciate Chairman Hulsey for his partnership as we work to get this legislation passed and for standing strong with victims and their families.”