HB1387 Summary

• Amends Section 12-3.3 of the Criminal Code of 2012 regarding aggravated domestic battery penalties.

• Creates a new offense (subsection a-5) for domestic battery involving strangulation, defined as intentionally impeding breathing or blood circulation by applying pressure to the throat/neck or blocking the nose/mouth.

• Strangulation during domestic battery is classified as a Class X felony with a mandatory prison sentence of 6 to 30 years.

• Traditional aggravated domestic battery (subsection a) causing great bodily harm or permanent disability remains a Class 2 felony.

• Courts must advise defendants convicted of aggravated domestic battery that federal law prohibits them from possessing firearms or ammunition under the Gun Control Act of 1968.