STREET GANG ACTIVITY SENTENCING

SB 330 would increase prison sentences for specific felony crimes committed to benefit a criminal street gang. If proven beyond a reasonable doubt, defendants convicted of 29 listed offenses (including murder, assault, robbery, drug trafficking, and aggravated battery) would face mandatory extra prison time: 1-8 additional years based on the felony's severity. The enhancements run consecutively and cannot be suspended, applying only when the crime was committed "for the benefit of, at the direction of, or in association with" a gang. This bill directly affects individuals convicted of these gang-linked crimes in New Mexico, with the changes set to take effect July 1, 2025.