Arizona Passes ‘Preston’s Law’ to Combat Group Violence Following Teen Tragedy

By Jonathan Eberle |

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has enacted HB 2611, also known as “Preston’s Law,” reflecting a pivotal shift in the prosecution of violent assaults involving multiple offenders. This legislation, spearheaded by State Representative Matt Gress (R-LD4), is named in memory of 16-year-old Preston Lord, who tragically lost his life during a group attack in October 2023.

The law redefines coordinated violent group assaults causing physical injury as aggravated assault, categorized as a class 4 felony under Arizona law. Previously, the legal framework lacked explicit provisions for assaults executed by multiple individuals, limiting prosecutors’ capacity to impose heightened charges in such scenarios.

“Preston’s Law ensures that those who commit violent acts as a group will face real consequences,” stated Rep. Gress. The legislation was spurred by public outcry and grief over Lord’s death, highlighting perceived deficiencies in the legal system regarding group violence, particularly among youth. The debate gained momentum as incidents of violence among teenagers became increasingly prevalent, fueled by social media exposure.

Gress collaborated closely with Preston Lord’s family and the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office to develop the bill. Its swift passage through the Arizona Legislature garnered bipartisan support, signaling a collective commitment to combat organized violence and bolster victim protections.

Lord’s tragic death ignited advocacy for legislative change, with his family striving to ensure that no other families endure similar heartbreak. “We honor Preston Lord by making his name a legacy of reform—not just a reminder of tragedy,” Gress remarked.

This legislative change enhances the criteria for aggravated assault under Arizona law, explicitly recognizing group coordination as a significant aggravating factor. Prosecutors now have greater authority to pursue felony charges in cases involving multiple offenders, thereby strengthening accountability in violent crimes.

Jonathan Eberle is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.