Committee approves "Missy’s Law" to mandate custody after conviction for dangerous crimes; defense group warns of unintended consequences
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Summary
CS for SB 928 ("Missy's Law") was reported favorably to require immediate remand to custody upon conviction of dangerous crimes; the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers urged caution, saying failures of interagency communication—not statutory gaps—underpinned the case motivating the bill.
The committee advanced CS for SB 928, known in debate as "Missy's Law," which would require courts to remand defendants to custody immediately upon conviction for specified dangerous crimes and prohibit release on bond after conviction. Sponsor Senator Martin said the bill closes a gap that allowed some convicted defendants to be released before sentencing and that the change is intended to improve public safety.
Aaron Waite, president‑elect of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, testified in opposition, urging the committee to consider the facts of the case that inspired the bill. Waite said media coverage showed prosecutors had not communicated pending investigations to the judge in that case and that the problem was a breakdown in communication between agencies rather than a statutory gap. He warned the measure could force co‑defendants who prosecutors want released pending cooperation into custody and could strain dockets and judges’ ability to manage sentencing.
A victim family member also testified in support, saying passage would be justice for her granddaughter "Melissa." Senator Martin acknowledged Waite’s concerns and said she is working with prosecutors to avoid unintended consequences. The committee then reported CS for SB 928 favorably by roll call.
