Testify: Judiciary Committee Hearing (March 31)

Connecticut's news media has dedicated considerable time to sharing the concerns of residents frustrated not just by escalating motor vehicle break-ins, but also brazen car thefts committed by juveniles who act without fear of significant legal repercussion.

There's a Judiciary Committee public hearing Wednesday [Details below] where you can share your thoughts about the motor vehicle theft crisis.

Early this session, House Republicans submitted legislation to impose actual consequences for teenagers (15-18) who are repeatedly charged with stealing or attempting to steal a vehicle.

Our proposal introduced at the start of the legislative session included:

• Facing charges on the regular criminal docket;
• Expanded ability for judges to order detainment or GPS monitoring;
• Categorize as "serious juvenile repeat offender" upon second theft conviction;
• Require DCF intervention to provide services to offender;
• Modify state pursuit policy, allow police to intercept thieves as the crime occurs