Sponsor Statement for SB 301

Three-Time Violent Offender

I respect and admire our peace officers who every day put their lives on the line for the citizens of Alaska. From Anchorage to Unalaska, whether local law enforcement or state troopers, these officers daily face uncertain dangers, while protecting Alaskans.

The majority of Alaskans are law-abiding citizens, but there are elements of our society who need a reinforced message.

This bill increases the penalty to a Class C felony for three or more violent misdemeanor convictions within 10 years. Consider that the following offenses are violent misdemeanor offenses:

1. ^{Assault in the 4th degree}
2. ^{Violating a Domestic Violence Order}
3. ^{Stalking in the second degree - conduct that places a person in fear of death or physical injury.}

People shouldn’t live in fear. I want to send a message to career criminals who skirt the felony statutes by repeatedly committing violent misdemeanor offenses - it won’t continue. This is a pattern of behavior, not a one-time mistake. The message is continue that pattern of behavior and you WILL get the felony charge.