This bill establishes a new crime of aggravated criminal entry of a motor vehicle with the intent to steal a firearm or firearm silencer, classifying it as a Class 5 felony. The legislation specifies that any individual who enters or remains in a motor vehicle and takes or exercises control over a firearm or firearm silencer, regardless of its value, will be guilty of this felony.

Additionally, the bill amends existing law regarding sentencing for Class 5 and Class 6 felonies by making offenders convicted under this new section ineligible for presumptive probation. The amendment specifies that the sentencing court must impose a term of probation for most Class 5 or Class 6 felonies, but it allows for alternative sentencing if aggravating circumstances are present that pose a significant risk to public safety. The court is required to document these circumstances during sentencing.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/28/2025: 22-6-11
House Judiciary Engrossed, 02/21/2025: 22-6-11