California Bill Proposes Abuse as Defense for Violent Crimes
A California bill, Assembly Bill 910, sponsored by Assemblymember Mia Bonta, proposes allowing survivors of human trafficking and intimate partner or sexual violence to use their abuse as a legal defense for violent crimes, with exceptions for most murder cases.…
San Diego, CA, July 27, 2026 —
A bill in the California State Assembly, Assembly Bill 910, aims to provide a legal defense for survivors of human trafficking and intimate partner or sexual violence who have committed violent crimes as a result of their abuse. The proposed legislation, sponsored by Assemblymember Mia Bonta, would allow individuals to use their experiences of abuse as a defense, with the notable exception of most murder cases.
Beyond offering a defense for current charges, Assembly Bill 910 also includes provisions for individuals who have already been convicted of crimes related to their abuse. These individuals would be permitted to petition the court to have their previous convictions vacated, offering a pathway to clear their records.
The bill has encountered significant opposition from law enforcement and prosecutor groups. These entities have voiced concerns that the proposed defense could be exploited by individuals to evade accountability for criminal actions. They argue that such a measure might create loopholes that criminals could leverage.
Conversely, proponents of the bill emphasize its potential to offer justice and relief to victims who may have committed offenses under duress or as a direct consequence of the abuse they endured. Susan Bustamante, a survivor of domestic abuse, is among the supporters who believe the bill could provide a crucial opportunity for victims to seek a fair resolution. Supporters contend that for individuals whose violent acts were a product of severe trauma and control, this bill could represent a chance for rightful justice.
Despite the arguments from both sides, Assembly Bill 910 has faced repeated setbacks within the legislative process. The bill has been stalled multiple times in legislative appropriations committees, indicating challenges in securing the necessary support and resources for its advancement.
Story summarized from the original created by Ryan Sabalow on www.kpbs.org, see more information here.
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