Jim Abeler on Crime

Major overhaul needed for sex offender laws

Of the 698 people now enrolled [as juveniles], 52 have never been convicted of an adult crime. "No person should be civilly committed based solely on behavior that occurred while that person was a juvenile," the report said. If the Legislature fails to fix the program it risk having it dismantled by a federal judge. Gov. Mark Dayton has halted the provisional release of offenders until the Legislature has a chance to act.

Rep. Jim Abeler, a Republican who also served on the task force, said those who believe changes are necessary--he counted himself in that group--might have to push forward even if it's divisive. "If we can't reach a truce, that doesn't mean the problem then goes away," Abeler said.

Supports use of deadly force in self-defense

Legislative title:Expands the Use of Deadly Force in Self-Defense

Legislative summary:Vote to expand provisions authorizing use of deadly force in self-defense. Highlights:

• Authorizes an individual to use deadly force to resist or prevent any of the following from occurring:
• The commission of a felony in the individual's dwelling;
• The commission of an offense that will expose an individual to substantial injury or death; or
• The commission of a felony that includes the threatened use of physical force or a deadly weapon.
• Expands the definition of a "dwelling" to include: overnight stopping accommodation of any kind; a motor vehicle; a watercraft; a motor home
• An individual is presumed to have a reasonable belief that there is an imminent threat of substantial injury or death if another individual has entered or is attempting to enter a dwelling unlawfully.