Senate passes Knopp bill to end statute of limitations on sex crimes
The Oregon Senate overwhelmingly approved Friday a bill sponsored by state Rep. Tim Knopp, R-Bend, allowing an unlimited statute of limitations for first-degree sex crimes when there is additional supporting evidence of the crime.
That evidence can be through non-DNA physical evidence, such as a confession by the defendant to that particular crime; a videotape or recording; statements made by the victim that are made close in time to the alleged crime; or when multiple victims speak on a crime that is so similar, it could be on the same charge.
SB 1600 passed the Senate with a 24-3 vote and now goes to the House for its consideration
“As a chief sponsor of SB 1600, I believe it is critical that we allow time for victims of first-degree sex crimes to come forward when they are confident enough to do so,” Knopp said. “Through encouragement from victim advocates and perseverance, we achieved a policy that is right for Oregonians, and especially for those affected by these horrible atrocities.”
“Sufferers of first-degree sex crimes need an opportunity to bring their assailant to justice,” Knopp continued. “An unlimited statute of limitations for these type of cases is an important step to alleviate a small portion of the pain that comes from this heinous action.
“SB 1600 is a step in the right direction in order to protect and defend these individuals. Also, this legislation allows prosecutors to gain a larger window of time to take legal action against criminals convicted of first degree sex crimes.”
On the Senate floor,Knopp thanked Danielle Tudor and Brenda Tracy for their steadfast advocacy and call for justice, which has been instrumental in passing this legislation.
