A package of criminal justice reforms named “Iryna’s Law” received final approval in North Carolina on Tuesday, passing the House with a vote of 81-31. The bill is named after Iryna Zarutska, a Ukrainian woman who was tragically murdered on a Charlotte train. Her death, captured on video and sparking national outrage, led lawmakers to act swiftly. All votes against the bill came from Democrats, highlighting a partisan divide in responses to the issue.
Iryna Zarutska was stabbed to death last month by Decarlos Brown Jr., a suspect with an extensive criminal record who was free despite facing a misdemeanor charge at the time of the attack. Republican State Representative Tricia Cotham pointedly remarked, “Brown should have never been allowed out of jail.” She emphasized that practices allowing violent offenders to remain free would end with the passage of this legislation.
The bill intends to reform a system some lawmakers view as broken, stressing the need for tougher measures. “For too long, activist judges and magistrates have turned dangerous criminals loose, endangering lives and spreading chaos in our communities,” said Republican House Speaker Destin Hall. He lamented, “Iryna Zarutska’s murder is a tragic reminder of what’s at stake,” asserting that the new law represents some of the strongest crime-fighting reforms in North Carolina’s history.
Iryna’s Law introduces significant changes, including ending cashless bail for violent offenders and requiring intensive monitoring, such as electronic tracking and mandatory house arrest for those released on bond. It aims to restrict judges’ discretion when dealing with violent, repeat offenders. These measures reflect a growing push for accountability in the justice system following rising concern about public safety.
Senate President Phil Berger echoed this sentiment, stating, “Iryna should still be alive. She should be thriving and enjoying time with her family and friends.” He condemned what he called “woke, weak-on-crime policies” and reiterated the need for swift justice against repeat offenders. Plans to revive the death penalty for particularly heinous crimes are also being considered, signaling a commitment to harsher penalties for violent crimes.
The passage of “Iryna’s Law” has garnered notable support, with prominent voices in the legislature praising the effort to protect citizens and prevent further tragedies. Lawmakers are determined to create a safer environment and ensure that dangerous criminals do not continue to pose a threat to communities across North Carolina.
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