The bill amends Florida Statutes concerning offenses related to fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement officers. It removes the requirement for law enforcement vehicles involved in pursuits to display "insignia and other jurisdictional markings" prominently. Additionally, it establishes a mandatory minimum sentence of three years for individuals convicted of aggravated fleeing or eluding that results in serious bodily injury or death, while allowing courts the discretion to impose greater sentences as permitted by law. The bill also reclassifies certain offenses within the Criminal Punishment Code, specifically elevating the severity of the offense for high-speed driving or reckless behavior while fleeing from law enforcement.
Moreover, the bill introduces a new provision for "Aggravated fleeing or eluding" under section 316.1935(4)(a), categorizing it as a second-degree felony. It modifies the sentencing scoring system by adding a multiplier for repeat offenders of fleeing or eluding offenses, which will apply if the offender has prior violations of the same statute. The amendments also clarify the assessment of points for legal status and community sanction violations, ensuring that offenders with prior serious or capital felonies face increased sentence points. These changes aim to strengthen penalties for repeat offenders and enhance public safety, with the act set to take effect on October 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: H 113 c1: 921.0024
H 113 c2: 921.0024
H 113 er: 921.0024