The bill amends the law regarding the revocation of probation or suspended sentences in Arkansas. It introduces a requirement for a period of incarceration for defendants who repeatedly violate the terms of their probation or suspended sentence. Specifically, the bill modifies Arkansas Code 16-93-309(d) to stipulate that, except in certain circumstances, if a defendant is found guilty at a subsequent revocation hearing after having their probation or suspended sentence revoked, the court may revoke the suspension or probation and sentence the defendant to incarceration.

Additionally, the bill mandates that if a defendant has had their probation or suspended sentence revoked at least three times, the court is required to sentence them to a period of incarceration that is at least equal to the term of imprisonment for the original offense. This change aims to enhance accountability for repeat offenders and ensure that those who consistently violate probation terms face appropriate consequences.

Statutes affected:
HB 1871: 16-93-309(d)