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JaJuan Latham Act would enhance penalties for drive-by shootings that harm a child

JaJuan was sitting in his father's parked car when he was hit by gunfire. Police called him an innocent victim of gang-related violence.

A bill named for a 12-year-old Knoxville boy who was killed in a drive-by shooting that would increase the penalties in similar crimes is advancing in Nashville.

On April 16, 2016, JaJuan Latham had just attended a “Stop the Violence” basketball game honoring the memory of his cousin, Zaevion Dobson, who died while shielding friends from gang-related gunfire a few months before.

He was sitting in his father's parked car when he was hit and killed by gunfire.

Senate Bill 10, sponsored by Senator Richard Briggs (R-Knoxville), would strengthen penalties against those convicted of harming a minor during a drive-by shooting.

Jajuan Latham was killed in a Saturday night gang-related shooting.

It cleared its first hurdle with passage in the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday.

“This legislation was written to address the real problem of drive-by shootings, which we have seen on the rise in Tennessee, particularly in Knox County,” said Senator Briggs.  “Children are not being killed in bank robberies, burglaries or hold-ups; they are getting killed in drive-by shootings.”

Briggs said many other states have enhanced penalties in place due to the reckless and wanton manner of the crime.

“These offenders have no regard for life or innocent people, particularly children, and that is why we are asking for enhanced penalties for this horrible crime.  This legislation will serve as a deterrent, while protecting the lives of our youngest and most innocent citizens,” Briggs concluded.

The bill now goes to the Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee for consideration before it moves to the floor for a final vote.  

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