Substitute Senate Bill No. 1502 seeks to amend Section 53a-35a of the general statutes to allow defendants who are survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking to request sentence reductions if they can demonstrate that their survivor status contributed to their offense. The bill introduces a new subsection (b) that requires defendants to provide at least two pieces of documented proof of their survivor status, and the court must find clear and convincing evidence linking this status to the offense to grant a reduced sentence. The proposed changes also include the admissibility of reliable hearsay evidence during hearings and outline specific maximum reduced sentences, which can be less than existing minimum sentences.

Additionally, the bill modifies the parole eligibility criteria, allowing individuals convicted of certain offenses to apply for parole earlier if they can prove their status as survivors. It mandates that the Board of Pardons and Paroles (BOPP) hold hearings for parole applications and consider the applicant's rehabilitation and survivor status. The bill also allows for commutation applications from survivors who have served at least ten years of their sentence, even if they were previously denied. Overall, sSB1502 aims to create a more compassionate and rehabilitative approach to sentencing and parole for individuals whose criminal actions were influenced by their experiences as survivors of violence or trafficking.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 54-125a, 54-130a
JUD Joint Favorable Substitute: 54-125a, 54-130a
File No. 742: 54-125a, 54-130a