New Mexico Bill Would Create Tougher Penalties For Sex Offenders

LAS CRUCES, NM- A law in New Mexico could increase the penalties for sex offenders against minors.

Governor Bill Richardson could sign a bill that would create a new crime of aggravated criminal sexual penetration, an increase in penaltiesfor sex offenders against minors, and would impose a lifetime parole for certain offenders.

“Jessica’s Law” is inspired by 9-year-old Jessica Lunsford from Florida who was kidnapped, raped and then buried alive. 48-year-old Evander Couey was convicted and could face the death penalty in her death.

“Jessica’s Law” has lead to tougher laws in states all across the nation.

Currently in New Mexico, a person who rapes a minor can receive a maximum of 18-years in prison. If “Jessica’s Law” passes, that person would get life, which equals 30 years in New Mexico.

Under the new law, prosecution would have to prove that theaccused did so with the intent to kill the child, or with the knowledge that the sexual act could kill the child.

District Attorney Susana Martinez tells ABC-7 she’s confident Governor Richardson is going to sign the bill into law. If approved, the law would go into effect July 1st.