Maricopa County Attorney and GOP Lawmakers Push for Tough Legislation on Violent Teen Offenders

Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell announced on Wednesday that she is collaborating with two legislators to introduce new legislation aimed at increasing penalties for group violence offenders in the upcoming session.

This initiative seeks to enhance accountability for individuals involved in acts of teen violence, a concern highlighted by the tragic death of Preston Lord, an East Valley teenager who lost his life in October 2023 after being attacked by members of a gang known as the “Gilbert Goons.”

“This is a tragic reminder of what happened almost a year ago to Preston Lord and to his family,” Mitchell stated during a press conference held in Queen Creek.

The proposed legislation aims to escalate the felony classification for assaults conducted by groups of three or more from a class 6 felony to a class 4 felony. Mitchell described this type of crime as “swarming,” emphasizing its danger due to the victim’s diminished ability to defend themselves.

Currently, perpetrators face felony charges only if they inflict serious injuries or use weapons. Mitchell explained that her office has managed to elevate some swarming charges to class 6 felonies, but these can often be reduced to misdemeanors.

By classifying swarming as a Class 4 felony, the legislation would impose harsher penalties on offenders, ensuring that those found guilty cannot have their charges downgraded to misdemeanors.

“This effort is going to provide better tools for law enforcement, but most importantly, it’s going to hold violent offenders accountable, especially in these cases of swarming,” said Queen Creek Police Chief Randy Brice.

State Representatives Matt Gress, R-Phoenix, and Julie Willoughby, R-Chandler, are slated to carry the legislation if they are re-elected. Both representatives come from competitive districts facing challenges from Democratic candidates.

“The town of Queen Creek knows painfully well the dangers of swarming. The loss of Preston Lord at the hands of a brutal teenage mob is unacceptable and requires a statewide response,” Gress remarked.

Seven individuals have been charged with first-degree murder and kidnapping related to Lord’s death. A Maricopa County Superior Court Judge recently reduced bail for three of the defendants, with a trial date scheduled for July 2025.

Mitchell expressed optimism regarding bipartisan support for the proposed legislation and is actively reaching out to fellow lawmakers for additional sponsorship.

“I am very hopeful that from the Legislature on up to the governor, that they recognize the need for this legislation,” she added.