After a final round of procedural analysis, spirited debate and bipartisan enthusiasm, HB2611, known as “Preston’s Law,” took a big step forward. The legislation aims to stiffen penalties for coordinated group violence, passing the House despite some contention. The bill, introduced by Arizona House Republicans Matt Gress (R-4), Michael Way (R-15), and Majority Whip Julie Willoughby (R-13), is named for Preston Lord, the sixteen-year-old killed during a 2023 Queen Creek, Arizona, attack by the criminal teens known as the “Gilbert Goons.”

Although the suspects in custody for Lord’s death face first-degree murder charges, supporters of “Preston’s Law” say the law encompasses a broader scope of group attacks. It establishes a new enhancement for aggravated assault called “swarming” that applies when an attack involves two or more assailants. Under the bill, these incidents would be ineligible for classification as a misdemeanor, chargeable instead as a class four felony with significantly stiffer penalties.

Rep. Willoughby told the Arizona Globe she was “proud to support HB2611,” calling the bill “much needed legislation” to prevent others from being similarly targeted. The bill was crafted by Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell, ensuring its alignment with her experience as a prosecutor and the State’s justice system. That proved beneficial in clearing procedural issues during the hearing.

“First of all, a Class 4 felony carries a longer punishment than a Class 6 felony,” Mitchell stated. “But also important is the fact that a Class 4 felony, unlike a Class 6 felony, cannot be returned to a misdemeanor.”

The bipartisan support in committee was unsurprising given its shared concerns about containing teen violence, especially after the heartbreak and headlines caused by attacks involving groups like the Gilbert Goons. Although there was some debate on the matter, Rep. Alex Kolodin spoke against the bill over concerns that it would overly harshly punish kids involved in simple school yard fights. But in the end, the bill’s limited scope helped it prevail. After clearing the House hurdle, the bill now advances to the Senate.

“My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Preston Lord,” said Willoughby after the bill’s passage. “I hope they know their efforts are making this state better and safer for everyone that lives here.”