HI SCR48

Request the Judiciary to convene a working group to examine Hawaii's enhanced sentencing laws under HRS section 706-657 (life without parole for second-degree murder cases involving heinous, atrocious, or cruel acts) and extended sentencing laws under HRS sections 706-661 and 706-662.

Working group should include representatives from the Attorney General, Department of Public Safety, prosecuting attorneys from all four counties, State Public Defender, and Hawaii State Bar Association Criminal Justice and Corrections Section.

Working group must determine the number of cases over the last ten years in which enhanced sentencing was sought and granted under section 706-657, and the number of cases in which extended sentencing was sought and granted under section 706-661.

Working group must examine the difference between sentences imposed and time actually served for extended sentencing cases over the last ten years, and review whether section 706-662 criteria for extended imprisonment require further statutory clarity.

Working group must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2014 regular session and be dissolved on June 30, 2014.