PHOENIX — State lawmakers and the Maricopa County Attorney's Office announced "Preston's Law" Thursday.
The legislation will strengthen the criteria for aggravated assault charges and include a provision targeting assaults involving two or more accomplices, which would result in enhanced penalties.
Local leaders announced the legislation Thursday:
The law is named after Preston Lord, a 16-year-old from San Tan Valley who was killed by a group of teens at a Halloween party in Queen Creek in 2023.
"Preston’s Law is a strong response to the devastating impact of violent crime, ensuring justice for victims and holding violent offenders accountable,” said Rep. Gress. “I’m grateful to County Attorney Mitchell for her leadership and support in bringing this important legislation forward. Together, we’re standing up for justice and the safety of every Arizona community."
Additional bill sponsors include House Majority Whip Julie Willoughby, and Representatives Lauren Hendrix, Michael Way, and Jeff Weninger.
Also at the news conference were Preston’s parents, Nick Lord and Autumn Curiel. In a statement, they expressed their hope that this type of crime will vanish. “The terrifying reality of coordinated assaults has become far too common and must be addressed. While no law can bring Preston back, we hope this bill will deter these types of attacks and protect others from suffering the same fate. We urge lawmakers to pass this legislation and make it clear that violence in numbers will not be tolerated. We ask that Preston’s tragic death serve as a catalyst for change, to ensure that no other family will have to endure the agony of losing a loved one to such senseless brutality.”
Seven teens are currently facing charges in connection to Lord's murder. All of the teens are still going through the legal process and are innocent until proven guilty.
The killing sent shock waves through the East Valley, leading to several police agencies turning their attention to combatting teen violence in their communities.
Three cities, Chandler, Gilbert, and Tempe, have since passed ordinances restricting access to brass knuckles in the community after investigations into teen violence commenced.
ABC15's Arizona's Crime Uncovered series recently covered the death of Preston Lord and highlighted what changes have come since then. Watch that episode in the player below.
Legislation related to teen violence in the East Valley was worked on during last year's state legislative session, but nothing was signed into law in 2024.
Another piece of legislation was also introduced Thursday that would protect victims and witnesses when they come forward with information by keeping their identity unknown. This comes after several witnesses were bullied and intimidated after coming forward in Preston's case.
The laws would need to pass through several legislative steps and then be signed by the governor to become official.
