Bill > SB330

This bill enhances criminal sentencing for felonies committed in connection with criminal street gang activity by adding additional prison time to the basic sentence for specific crimes. Under the bill, if a prosecutor proves beyond a reasonable doubt that a felony was committed to benefit or further a criminal street gang, the basic sentence would be increased by 1-8 years depending on the severity of the offense. The bill defines a "criminal street gang" as an organization of three or more people with criminal activity as a primary purpose, and a "pattern of criminal street gang activity" as two or more felonies committed by different persons within three years. The bill applies to a comprehensive list of 29 specific felonies, including murder, assault, sexual crimes, robbery, burglary, and drug trafficking, among others. The additional sentence enhancements must be served consecutively with the basic sentence and cannot be suspended or deferred. If multiple enhancements apply, they would run concurrently. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and is designed to provide harsher penalties for crimes committed in association with street gangs, with the goal of deterring gang-related criminal activity.

Justice

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=S&legtype=B&legno=330&year=25