Assemblyman Marc Butler (R,C,I-Newport) voted for legislation expanding New York’s criminal DNA database, eliminating the criminal statute of limitations for felony rape cases and extending the civil statute of limitations.
“The Assembly minority fought for and were successful in expanding New York’s DNA database, as well as passing legislation that would change the statute of limitations to further protect us from criminals,” said Butler.
The criminal DNA database would be expanded to include individuals convicted of any felony charges or any of 18 serious misdemeanors, including stalking, menacing and offenses against children.
The criminal statute of limitations for Class B felony sexual assault crimes would be eliminated and the civil statute of limitations would increase from a year to five years under the agreement. First-degree crimes of rape, criminal sexual act, aggravated sexual abuse and sexual conduct against a child would apply to the legislation.
The legislation has gone on to the governor so he may decide whether to sign it into law.
“Creating harsher punishments against criminal acts is a main priority,” said Butler. “We should continue our efforts in passing civil confinement legislation and measures that strengthen laws against crime that have passed the state Senate and should also be passed in the Assembly.”