The Alford Plea Fairness Act proposes amendments to sections 2929.12, 2929.15, and 2929.25 of the Revised Code, primarily aimed at protecting offenders who enter an Alford plea. The bill prohibits sentencing courts from requiring these offenders to admit guilt as a condition of community control, thereby safeguarding their rights to maintain innocence while still accepting a guilty plea. Additionally, it specifies that courts shall not consider whether the offender showed genuine remorse for the offense in such cases. This change is intended to create a more equitable sentencing framework for individuals who choose to enter an Alford plea.

Moreover, the bill clarifies penalties for violations of community control sanctions, particularly concerning minor drug possession offenses, ensuring that offenders are not unduly penalized for such violations. It also repeals conflicting sections of the Revised Code to streamline the legal framework surrounding community control sanctions. The legislation emphasizes the discretion of sentencing courts in modifying sanctions based on offender behavior and compliance, while establishing clear guidelines for imposing prison terms for violations. Overall, the Alford Plea Fairness Act seeks to create a fairer system for managing community control sanctions, particularly for those who maintain their innocence through an Alford plea.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2929.12, 2929.15, 2929.25