Senator Golden Joins Senate Passage of Anti-Crime Package

Bills Strengthen Penalties for Sex Offenders, Bank Robberies and Home Invasions

Albany- State Senator Martin J. Golden (R-C-I, Brooklyn) joined the New York State Senate yesterday in passing several anti-crime bills to strengthen penalties and create new charges for offenses relating to sexual abuse, bank robberies, home invasions and driving irresponsibly. The measures will help deter criminals, hold violators accountable and create safer communities throughout the state.

Senator Marty Golden stated, “As a former New York City Police Officer, I am proud to have voted to support these important pieces of legislation that address issues and concerns that affect the safety of our homes, businesses and families. I encourage the Assembly to act so that we can help make our communities safer. If one does not feel secure in their home and in their community, an important part of their ability to enjoy a high standard of living has been lost."

Senator Golden supported two bills that target sex offenders and protect communities by improving post-release monitoring and restrictions on future employment. Bill S.1416 establishes penalties for failing to provide a DNA sample and failure to register or verify as a sex offender, making such failure a Class E felony for a first offense, and a Class D felony upon subsequent offenses. Bill S.1418 prohibits registered sex offenders from obtaining employment which would include unsupervised access to residential living quarters. Types of employment would include residential building superintendent, manager, maintenance worker, home or assisted living facility health aide.

Senator Golden also voted to support S.4194 that deters potential thieves and provides an appropriate level of punishment for violators. It establishes a stronger penalty for robbery of property from a bank by making the crime a Class C felony.

Other bills that passed the New York State Senate yesterday include:

· Bill S.3207, expands the definitions of aggravated sexual abuse to include victims less than 13 years old when the defendant is 18 years old or more.

· Bill S.3325, requires registered sex offenders to assert compliance with all residency and employment laws.

· Bill S.3205, creates the crime of home invasion robbery in the first and second degree.

· Bill S.3225, requires mandatory license suspensions for violations of certain restrictions by licensed drivers under the age of 18.

The bills have been sent to the Assembly