The proposed bill, titled the Victim Safety in Pretrial Release Act, aims to enhance the legal framework surrounding pretrial release conditions for individuals charged with specified violent crimes. It establishes a new section, 903.0472, which stipulates that individuals on pretrial release for certain violent offenses will commit a separate criminal offense if they willfully violate any conditions of their release. The bill outlines penalties for such violations, including a misdemeanor for first offenses and a felony for subsequent violations against the original victim or involving new acts of violence. Additionally, the bill mandates that during a first appearance hearing, courts must prioritize victim and public safety when deciding on pretrial detention or release.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing law to allow law enforcement officers to arrest individuals without a warrant if there is probable cause to believe they have violated pretrial release conditions related to violent crimes. It also provides legal protection for officers from civil liability when making such arrests. The effective date for this legislation is set for October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 760 Filed: 901.15