TALLAHASSEE – LAWFUEL – Law News Network – Attorney General Charlie Crist today commended Governor Jeb Bush for signing the “Safe Shelter” bill into law. The new law, which was among Crist’s legislative priorities this year, significantly increases penalties for anyone who trespasses at a domestic violence shelter.
“Those who are seeking a safe haven should not have to fear that
their abusers will have easy access,” said Crist. ?I join the people of
Florida in thanking Governor Bush and the Legislature for this strong
public safety measure.”
The new law, which was sponsored by Senator Mike Fasano and
Representative Jennifer Carroll, is designed to keep abusers away from
those they have victimized by making shelters more secure for their
inhabitants. Under the law, violators face up to five years in jail and a
$5,000 fine, a significant enhancement from the previous penalty of no more than a $1,000 fine and one year in jail. The Florida Coalition Against
Domestic Violence was instrumental in the creation of the legislation, and numerous law enforcement organizations announced their support.
