SACRAMENTO—Criminal protective orders (CPO) issued by the court will be valid for one year after the defendant’s release if the original order has expired or is about to expire in a bill approved by the state legislature today. The measure, AB 1889, was introduced by Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-San Bernardino).
Ramos said, “These protective orders serve as a safeguard for victims who may face threats, intimidation and violence. When the orders expire prior to the release of a defendant, victims are placed in a potentially dangerous situation. This bill will allow time for victims to better protect themselves and feel safe when they learn offenders who have been convicted of a crime against them are to be released.”
CPOs are routinely issued in cases involving domestic violence, human trafficking or acts of sexual assault to discourage offenders from contact with victims and witnesses. This change ensures that victims receive timely notification about their offender’s eventual release and that there is some degree of protection while they pursue longer-term safety measures.
“Victims should not be left vulnerable when an offender is released from custody simply because their criminal protective order expired while that offender was behind bars," said Riverside County District Attorney Michael A. Hestrin. "Victims deserve continued protection as they work to rebuild their lives and take the steps necessary to remain safe. We are proud to support this legislation and thank Assemblymember Ramos for making victim safety a priority.”
Co-sponsors are the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office and the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office. A partial list of other supporters includes the California District Attorneys Association, California State Sheriffs’ Association, Peace Officers Research Association of California, California Police Officers’ Association, Strong Hearted Native Women’s Coalition, American Association of University Women and several local police officer associations.
###
Assemblymember James C. Ramos proudly represents the 45th Assembly district that includes the Cities of Fontana, Highland, Mentone, Redlands, Rialto and San Bernardino. He is the first and only California Native American serving in the state’s legislature. Ramos chairs the Assembly Budget Subcommittee #6 on Public Safety and the Assembly Select Committee on Native American Affairs.
