If enacted, this bill would introduce a new offense of "unlawful entry in or on a residential structure in which a vulnerable adult resides," establishing specific criteria for this offense. Under the proposed law, a person would commit this offense if they knowingly enter or remain in a residential structure occupied by a vulnerable adult without permission from the owner or caregiver, and if the incident is reported to authorities. This offense would be classified as a class 4 felony, escalating to a class 3 felony if it involves a sexual offense against the vulnerable adult.

Additionally, the bill would amend existing statutes to include unlawful entry involving a sexual offense as a predicate for sex offender registration. It would also define "vulnerable adult" in accordance with existing definitions in Arizona law. The bill aims to enhance protections for vulnerable adults by increasing penalties for unlawful entry and ensuring that such offenses are treated with greater severity, particularly when they involve sexual crimes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 13-1510, 13-3821, 13-118, 13-1307, 13-3019, 46-451
House Engrossed Version: 13-1510, 13-3821, 13-118, 13-1307, 13-3019, 46-451