Marshall Highlights Criminalization of Bulletproof Vests and Masks in Anti-Gang Bill
Senate Majority Leader Samantha Marshall, speaking during the debate on the Anti-Gang Bill today, drew attention to the strict penalties included in the bill for the possession of bulletproof vests, ski-masks, and other items often associated with gang activity.
The bill, which was passed by the Senate, imposes severe consequences on individuals caught with these items when linked to criminal intent.
Marshall noted that possession of bulletproof vests, firearms, ammunition, offensive or prohibited weapons, as well as masks or face coverings like ski masks, will now carry heavy sentences if it is proven that they were intended for use in the commission of a crime.
“A person who uses a bulletproof vest, firearm, ammunition, offensive weapon, prohibited weapon, or ski mask, or other face covering… once it is proven that it was intended to be used, or they know, or ought reasonably to have known that it would be used in the commission of an offense, that person will be liable on conviction for imprisonment for up to 15 years,” Marshall explained.
She went on to express her disbelief over the increasing trend of young people wearing ski masks and hoodies in public, particularly in the face of rising temperatures and climate change.
“I cannot understand for the world of me. We’re living in the heart of one of the hottest parts of this world… and you have young people walking up and down with hoodies, face coverings, masks, ski masks. What for?” Marshall questioned. “It can be nothing else than to conceal your identity or indicate some gang membership.”
The Anti-Gang Bill’s passage marks a significant move towards curbing gang activity by targeting individuals who possess or use items like bulletproof vests and masks with criminal intent, reinforcing the government’s commitment to addressing gang violence and crime.
The bill received support from both sides of the house with senators stressing personal and parental responsibility that goes far beyond legislation.
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