FL S0904

Creates new crime of "abuse of a parent" (s. 784.09, F.S.) defining offenses committed by unmarried children under 18 against their biological parents, including physical injury, threats of bodily harm, and acts causing physical injury.

Establishes four categories of parent abuse with corresponding penalties: abuse of a parent (second-degree misdemeanor), aggravated abuse of a parent (second-degree felony for aggravated battery, third-degree felony for aggravated assault or false imprisonment, first-degree felony for great bodily harm), exploitation of parent's assets (second-degree misdemeanor to first-degree felony based on value from under $500 to $50,000 or more), and emotional abuse of a parent (second-degree misdemeanor).

Allows courts to reduce felony charges to misdemeanors and impose alternative sentencing including probation or specialized intervention programs for aggravated abuse or exploitation cases upon request of state or defense attorney.

Requires any person with knowledge or reasonable suspicion of parent abuse or asset exploitation to report it to the Department of Children and Families' central abuse hotline and provides immunity from prosecution for good-faith reporting or participation in investigations.

Takes effect October 1, 2014.