Introduction to the Bill
A Texas Senate bill that aimed to expand the state’s capital murder statute to include people convicted of killing children between the ages of 10 and 15 has failed to reach the governor’s desk. The bill, known as Senate Bill 990, was authored by Senator Paul Bettencourt, a Republican from Houston.
The Purpose of the Bill
The bill’s primary purpose was to raise the victim age threshold for capital punishment from 10 years old to 15. Proponents of the bill argued that a legal loophole allows some individuals accused of killing minors in this age range to avoid the most severe punishment in Texas.
Support for the Bill
The bill had a strong start in the legislative session, with emotional testimonies in committee and bipartisan support in the senate. Many legislators believed that the bill was necessary to deter crimes committed against children. One of the proponents of the bill was Houston resident Alexis Nungaray, whose 12-year-old daughter, Jocelyn, was assaulted and killed last year.
Personal Stories
Alexis Nungaray’s story is a tragic one. Her daughter Jocelyn was allegedly killed by two Venezuelan men who were in the U.S. without legal status. This incident prompted legislative proposals and national calls for increased immigration enforcement. During a hearing on the bill in March, Alexis Nungaray stated, "They’re supposed to be our future. They’re supposed to make us proud, and when we can’t protect them, that’s a problem. I think all children should be accounted for, regardless of their age, because they are important, and we need to keep them safe."
History of the Bill
A similar bill was authored in 2019 in response to the slaying of 13-year-old Lauren Landavazo, who was shot and killed in 2016. However, legislators amended the bill to remove the statute that would have expanded the death penalty to people accused of killing 10- to 15-year-olds. The bill ultimately only strengthened charging punishments against those accused.
Impact of the Bill’s Failure
The failure of Senate Bill 990 does not impact the ongoing murder case of Jocelyn Nungaray. Prosecutors are still able to seek the death penalty against the accused killers, Johan Jose Rangel Martinez and Franklin Jose Pena Ramos, because Jocelyn was raped before she was strangled to death.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the failure of Senate Bill 990 to pass is a significant setback for those who advocate for stronger punishments for individuals who commit crimes against children. While the bill’s failure does not impact the ongoing case of Jocelyn Nungaray, it does highlight the need for continued efforts to strengthen laws and protect children from harm. The story of Jocelyn Nungaray and others like her serves as a reminder of the importance of advocating for the safety and well-being of all children.
