Murrieta Assemblywoman's Bill Aims to Protect Victims of Domestic Violence

The following was submitted for publication by the office of Assemblywoman Melissa Melendez:

Assemblywoman Melissa Melendez, R-Lake Elsinore, announced Tuesday her bill to strengthen domestic violence laws passed out of the Assembly Public Safety committee.

“During my reelection campaign, when domestic violence was on the front page of every newspaper in the country, I promised to do what I could to enhance domestic violence laws and protect the innocent,” Melendez said. “Though domestic violence is no longer in the headlines, I’m keeping that promise.”

Assembly Bill 545 ensures repeat domestic violence offenders are recognized by the law as repeat offenders, regardless of the order in which the crime is committed. AB 545 will no longer allow repeat offenders to receive just a slap on the wrist and puts in place a minimum jail sentence for any repeat offender of domestic violence.

“Committing domestic violence a second time indicates the person is dangerous and increased sentencing is warranted,” said Melendez. “If we think back to the headlines of just nine months ago, I think all of my colleagues recognize we have a duty to pass this legislation and to stand up for the victims of domestic violence.”

Assemblywoman Melissa Melendez represents the 67th Assembly District, which includes the communities of Lake Elsinore, Canyon Lake, Murrieta, Menifee, Wildomar and a portion of Hemet. It also includes the Riverside County unincorporated areas of Lake Mathews, Good Hope, Nuevo, and Winchester.

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