House Republican Press Release

January 23, 2008

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Klarides Votes for Criminal Justice Reforms

Majority Party Rejects Tougher “Three Strikes” Provision Against Repeat Offenders

HARTFORD- Deputy House Republican Leader Themis Klarides (R-114) today voted in favor of legislation to increase penalties for home invasions, saying it closed some loopholes in state anti-crime laws but failed to impose tougher penalties on repeat violent offenders, including repeat burglars.

The state House and Senate, meeting in special session nearly six months to the day after a Cheshire home invasion and triple murder shocked the state, adopted many of the provision recommended by the governor’s task force and supported by most legislators.

They include:

• Creating a new crime of home invasion

• Requiring someone convicted of second degree burglary or home invasion to serve at least 85 percent of his or her sentence

• Altering the makeup of the state Board of Pardons and Parole

• Limiting parole relief by administrative review

The Democratic majority rejected Republican efforts in the Senate and House to enact a “three strikes” law that would send repeat violent felony offenders to jail for life.

“I consider today’s work to be an important first step,” said Representative Klarides. “I would have certainly preferred to see a ‘Three Strikes’ proposal adopted, and to have gone home tonight after having voted for a tougher bill.  But this measure does make some important and significant changes to the current system which improves it overall.  I expect this issue to continue into the regular 2008 session.”

Representative Klarides serves the 114th Assembly District which includes Woodbridge, Orange and Derby.