The proposed bill, SB1646, amends existing probation laws in Arizona by requiring courts to issue a warrant for the rearrest of defendants on probation for felony convictions if they are charged with a new felony committed during their probationary term. This warrant must be issued without delay at the request of the state or a probation officer, unless the defendant is eligible for probation for drug-related offenses or if the felony charge has been previously considered at a revocation hearing. Additionally, defendants arrested under this provision are not eligible for release while probation revocation proceedings are ongoing.

Current law allows the court discretion in issuing a warrant for rearrest, but the new bill mandates it under specific circumstances. The bill also clarifies that the court must act without delay and outlines conditions under which a defendant may not be released during revocation proceedings, thereby tightening the rules surrounding probation violations and enhancing accountability for defendants on probation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 13-901, 13-903, 13-917, 13-924, 13-913, 13-603, 12-267, 13-902, 31-233, 13-901.01, 13-3422
Senate Engrossed Version: 13-901, 13-903, 13-917, 13-924, 13-913, 13-603, 12-267, 13-902, 31-233, 13-901.01, 13-3422