Bill > H1388

This bill, titled "Relative to rape of a child by force by previous offenders," proposes to amend existing law by adding a new section that significantly increases the penalties for individuals who commit rape of a child under 14 by force and have prior felony convictions related to child sexual offenses. Specifically, if a person is convicted of rape of a child under 14 by force and has previously been convicted of or adjudicated delinquent or as a youthful offender for a list of serious sex crimes against children or adults, including various forms of indecent assault and battery, assault with intent to commit rape, and rape, they will be sentenced to life imprisonment. This life sentence cannot be reduced or suspended, and the individual will not be eligible for probation, parole, work release, furlough, or good conduct deductions. The bill also clarifies that evidence of prior convictions, such as certified copies of court records or probation department data, will be considered prima facie evidence of a prior conviction and will be admissible to prove the defendant's prior offenses without additional corroborating evidence or witness testimony, after guilt for the current offense has been established.