WASHINGTON (May 11, 2005) - Congressman Bobby Rush announced today on the House floor his opposition to the passage of H.R. 1279, The Gang Deterrence and Community Prosecution Act of 2003, which institutes mandatory minimum sentencing as a solution to deter gang activities and facilitates the federal prosecution of juveniles.

The bill, which passed by a 279-144 vote, expands the definition of a criminal street gang also mandates harsher punishments for crimes that already have long sentences. The definition of crime is broadened to include both violent and non-violent crimes such as resisting arrest and drug trafficking.

"Living in Chicago, I am well aware of how gang violence devastates communities," said Rush. "However, research has shown that increasing prison terms does not reduce youth violence. By applying one-size-fit all penalties without individual distinction, it only further permeates injustice in our law enforcement system."

Rush points to studies, which indicate that the best way to prevent juvenile crime, and by extension adult crime, is through prevention and early intervention programs geared toward at-risk youth.

The new penalties, with mandatory minimum sentences and death penalties, for committing a gang crimes includes 10 years for the intent to commit a crime of violence; 30 years to life for kidnapping, aggravated sexual abuse or maiming; 20 years for assault resulting in serious bodily injury; and 10 years to life in any other case.

To read Congressman Rush’s statement, click here.

To read the H.R. 1279, bill, click here: <http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=109_cong_bills&docid=f:h1279rh.txt.pdf>)

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