Judiciary - Criminal

OKLAHOMA CITY – A date has been set for Rep. Ross Ford’s interim study on finding ways to better assist domestic violence victims and to address the generational impact of such abuse. Interim study IS23-051 is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. Oct. 4 in Room 450 at the State Capitol, 2300 N Lincoln Blvd. It will be heard by the House Judiciary – Criminal Committee. "I've talked with countless individuals and organizations who are excited to help Oklahomans and offered their assistance in any way. Together I'm hoping these subject-matter experts can help us understand what works and how better we can help these victims," said Ford, R-Broken Arrow. “I want to look at early intervention, programs that will help empower victims to leave their attackers before it is too late, and that help show what healthy relationships look like." Ford, a former police officer, said one area of focus will be how domestic violence forensic examinations can provide much needed support for district attorneys to help enhance punishments for perpetrators of this crime.  Ford said his study is made even more timely with recent news reports that show Oklahoma now ranks highest in domestic violence for both men and women and third in the U.S. for the number of women killed by their significant others. In addition, the Oklahoma Coalition for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault is no longer operating after a loss of federal funding. This came after a federal audit found misspending of public funds by former staff and board members.  "I think with the position we've found ourselves in, it's imperative we don't just try to go back to the old method that allowed our state to rank the highest in domestic violence," Ford said. "Instead, we must look at a variety of options and organizations to try and break the generational cycle of abuse our state is in. While it is important to look after the victims, I want to ensure we are also doing what we can to help educate and prevent future victims." Rep. Ford appreciates all those who have contacted his office already. He encourages anyone else wanting to join the conversation to attend the interim study or continue reaching out to his office either to his email at  Ross.Ford@okhouse.gov  or by calling (405) 557-7347.

An interim study by Rep. Toni Hasenbeck, R-Elgin, to examine convictions and sentencing for distribution of non-consensual pornography has been approved.  Known as "revenge porn," the nonconsensual distribution of pornography with the intent to harass or humiliate the subject became a misdemeanor in 2016 under Senate Bill 1257.  "Cameras and cell phones are so common today that many photos or videos, including those that are intimate in nature, are taken without the subject's knowledge or consent," Hasenbeck said. "Even when the media was captured with consent, the subject may not have given permission to post it online or otherwise share it. But once it hits the Internet, it is nearly impossible for law enforcement or the victim to track down every single place on the Internet that this photo or video landed.  "The knowledge that this media is out there haunts these victims day in and day out," Hasenbeck continued. "It destroys their lives, causes severe anxiety and depression and leaves these innocent victims feeling completely helpless."  Currently, the crime is punishable by up to one year in the county jail, a fine of up to $1,000 or both. Additionally, the court may order the defendant to remove the image if the court finds it is in the power of the defendant to do so. Subsequent offenses are considered a felony with at least one year of imprisonment and a fine of up to $25,000.  Hasenbeck's study, IS23-087, has been assigned to the House Judiciary – Criminal Committee. Interim studies can begin Aug. 7 and must conclude by Nov. 16. 

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Justin Humphrey, R-Lane, this week secured passage of House Bill 2530, which would reduce violations relating to cockfighting to misdemeanors. The measure also would provide that 5% of the voters of a county may call an election on the issue by submitting a petition signed by such voters to the county election board. A majority of the county commissioners may also call the special election. "This is about criminal justice reform and bringing fairness to sentencing," Humphrey said. "Drugs like methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl have killed hundreds of Oklahomans, but possession of these drugs results in only a misdemeanor. Meanwhile, fighting chickens continues to be a felony punishable by ten years of incarceration. To perhaps ask it better, How many people have died from chicken fighting?" Humphrey said. he is very proud to carry House Bill 2530. "I know that being just and fair is the right thing to do," he said. The bill received a do-pass recommendation from the House Judiciary-Criminal Committee. It now is eligible to be considered on the House floor.