Yavapai News

Legislation sponsored by Arizona State Representative Quang Nguyen has been signed into law, aiming to strengthen penalties for adults who engage in sexual conduct with minors. The new law, HB2114, targets offenders over the age of 21 who have sexual interactions with minors aged 15 to 17. It upgrades the offense from a class 6 felony to a class 4 felony when the offender is more than five years older than the victim. Additionally, it mandates a minimum one-year jail sentence if probation is granted.

Representative Nguyen said, "Adults who target vulnerable teenagers for sex deserve real consequences—not leniency." He emphasized that the law aims to protect minors and send a clear message that Arizona will not tolerate such behavior. "If you’re an adult who thinks it’s acceptable to exploit a 15-, 16-, or 17-year-old, you’re going to face serious prison time," he added.

The bill received broad bipartisan support in both legislative chambers and aligns with the House Republican Majority Plan's commitment to enhancing safety in Arizona, upholding the rule of law, and supporting victims over offenders. The law will take effect later this year.

Quang Nguyen serves as a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives for Legislative District 1 in Yavapai County and chairs the House Judiciary Committee.

Information from this article can be found here.