On May 4, it was reported that Georgia Governor Brian Kemp had signed “Mariam’s Law.” But what exactly is this law all about? How might it affect you? These are questions that are very important to answer, as this new law could drastically alter the way sex crimes are prosecuted in the Peach State.
Mariam’s Law Explained
Mariam’s Law is named after Mariam Abdulrab, an Atlanta woman who was kidnapped and murdered in 2021. This incident was controversial because her murderer had a prior sex assault and molestation conviction, and many argued that this convict should have stayed behind bars. If he had received a longer sentence, Mariam might still be alive.
In response to this, lawmakers in Georgia signed Bill HB 188, which makes it possible for sex offenders to face life in prison and lifetime probation. You may face this consequence if you commit a sex crime with any of the following prior convictions:
- Rape
- Incest
- Child molestation
- Aggravated child molestation
- Aggravated sodomy
- Aggravated sexual battery
- Statutory rape (for convicts over the age of 21)
- Enticing a child for indecent purposes
- Aggravated assault with the intent to rape
- Kidnapping a victim under the age of 14
- Trafficking people for sexual servitude
- Improper sexual contact by employee, agent, or foster parent
In addition, Mariam’s Law requires anyone who falls under this classification to have electronic monitoring while on probation. Essentially, this raises the stakes for anyone facing a sex crime in Georgia today. Whether it’s your first offense or your second, it is now even more important to fight for a positive outcome alongside a qualified defense attorney.
Veterans Affairs Doctor Charged With Sexually Assaulting Patients
Unfortunately, Mariam’s Law is not going to stop sexual assaults from occurring in Georgia. On May 4 – the same day the bill was signed into law – a VA doctor was indicted for sexually assaulting female patients. Over the course of about a year, this doctor groped and improperly touched his patients during routine exams. Investigators believe that these assaults may have affected many other patients aside from those who have already come forward. It is unclear whether this doctor has any prior sex crime convictions and whether Mariam’s Law will apply to his case. But this case shows that no matter what happens, it seems as though people will always continue to commit sex crimes in the Peach State.
Where Can I Find a Qualified Criminal Defense Attorney in Georgia?
If you have been charged with sex crimes in Georgia, it is imperative that you get in touch with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Choose Lankford & Moore Law, and you can strive for the best possible outcomes in an effective, confident manner. We will help you get started with the right defense strategy, so book your consultation today and take your first steps.
