Legislation sponsored by state Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer, R-Parkville, that toughens penalties for violent crime has passed the Missouri Senate and now moves to the House of Representatives. Senate Bill 600 combines several proposals aimed at addressing rampant crime in Missouri’s metropolitan areas.
The legislation requires persons convicted of second-degree murder and other violent crimes to serve prison time, closing the revolving door that releases dangerous offenders on probation. The measure increases the penalty for armed criminal action and requires sentences for that offense to be served consecutive to any sentence for related offenses. Senate Bill 600 also increases penalties for felons in possession of a firearm and provides greater flexibility for prosecutors to bring charges against gang members.
A recent study published by USA Today listed three Missouri metropolitan areas among the 25 most dangerous cities in America.
St. Louis came in at No. 5, Kansas City ranked sixth and Springfield was listed in 14th place. Senator Luetkemeyer’s legislation, which also now defines carjacking as a distinct criminal offense, has been praised by prosecutors and law enforcement officials alike.
“Many of the violent crimes we see occurring are committed by repeat offenders who are undeterred by lenient sentencing,” Sen. Luetkemeyer said. “This legislation strengthens the penalties for violent behavior and begins to address the lawlessness in our cities.”
“Missouri ranks in the top 10 for violent and dangerous felonies. Senate Bill 600 takes a meaningful approach to aiding law enforcement and helping keep those criminals off our streets,” Rolla Police Chief and Missouri Police Chiefs Association President Sean Fagen said.
The organization representing Missouri’s 115 elected prosecuting and circuit attorneys also endorsed the legislation.
“Missouri ranks in the top 10 for violent and dangerous felonies. Senate Bill 600 takes a meaningful approach to aiding law enforcement and helping keep those criminals off our streets,” Rolla Police Chief and Missouri Police Chiefs Association President Sean Fagen said.
The organization representing Missouri’s 115 elected prosecuting and circuit attorneys also endorsed the legislation.
“On behalf of Missouri’s prosecutors, we are proud to stand behind Sen. Luetkemeyer’s efforts to battle violent crime,” said St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney and Missouri Association of Prosecuting Attorneys President Tim Lohmar.
“This legislation will provide us with much needed tools to combat criminal organizations, and to ensure that violent offenders are taken off the streets. Senator Luetkemeyer’s legislation is a win for public safety in the State of Missouri.”
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