Judiciary committee advances rule to allow prior sexual‑assault evidence in trials

Representative Clancy urged the House Judiciary Committee on behalf of a proposed joint resolution that would allow a judge to admit documented prior sexual‑assault reports and similar evidence to show a pattern of behavior in sexual‑assault trials. The committee voted to favorably recommend the draft resolution to the full legislature.

The resolution would add a specified exception in the Utah rules of evidence to permit the admission — subject to judicial gatekeeping — of prior sexual‑assault evidence, including documented reports that did not lead to conviction, when the prosecution makes a detailed proffer. Supporters said the change mirrors federal practice and helps juries weigh credibility when offenses occur in private settings.

Supporters told the committee the measure is narrowly tailored and preserves safeguards. "What this resolution will do is to allow prior sexual assaults to be admitted as evidence in sexual‑assault trials," Representative Clancy said, and emphasized that…