AZ HB2572

Changes sentencing for dangerous crimes against children in the first degree involving sexual assault or sexual conduct with minors 12 years or younger to mandatory natural life imprisonment without eligibility for commutation, suspension, or parole except as authorized by section 31-233.

Modifies sentencing for dangerous crimes against children in the first degree involving attempted first degree murder, second degree murder, sexual assault, sexual conduct, or methamphetamine manufacturing affecting minors under 12 to mandatory life imprisonment (previously discretionary) with no release eligibility until 35 years served.

Increases sentencing ranges for dangerous crimes against children in the first degree involving assault, molestation, commercial sexual exploitation, child abuse, or kidnapping from 10-24 years to 13-27 years minimum to maximum (or 23-37 years with one prior predicate felony).

Increases sentencing ranges for dangerous crimes against children involving sexual abuse or bestiality from 2.5-7.5 years to 7.5-12.5 years minimum to maximum.

Adds new aggravating circumstance for death penalty consideration: defendant committed offense against a person under 12 years old and the offense involved violation of chapters 14 or 35.1 (sex crimes or human trafficking).