Bill > S921

This bill proposes to create a new law in Chapter 265 of the General Laws that defines and criminalizes strangulation and suffocation, which involve intentionally interfering with breathing or blood circulation by applying pressure to the neck or blocking the nose or mouth, respectively. The bill outlines penalties for these offenses, with a basic charge carrying a potential prison sentence of up to 5 years or a shorter jail term and/or a fine of up to $5,000. More severe penalties, including up to 10 years in state prison, apply if the strangulation or suffocation results in "serious bodily injury" (defined as injury causing permanent disfigurement, loss or impairment of bodily function, limb, or organ, or a substantial risk of death), if the victim is pregnant and the perpetrator knew or should have known, if the perpetrator has a prior conviction for strangulation or suffocation, or if the victim has an active restraining or no-contact order against the perpetrator.