Bill > HB1644

This bill amends the Criminal Code of 2012 by adding a new subsection that expands the definition of aggravated domestic battery. Specifically, the bill creates a new provision that makes it aggravated domestic battery when a person commits domestic battery against an individual who is 60 years of age or older, with the important caveat that this does not apply to cases involving firearm discharge. This change means that when someone commits domestic battery against an elderly person (excluding firearm-related incidents), they can be charged with a more serious offense - aggravated domestic battery, which is classified as a Class 2 felony. The bill builds upon existing provisions in the law that already define aggravated domestic battery, such as causing great bodily harm or permanently disabling/disfiguring the victim, or strangling the victim. By adding protection for elderly victims, the bill aims to provide enhanced legal consequences for domestic violence committed against a vulnerable population.