NY to Add Charge for Masked Criminals; Hochul Announces Budget Deal

Albany, NY - Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a $254 billion state budget that includes a new criminal charge for individuals who wear masks while committing crimes. The agreement, reached with New York lawmakers, aims to address concerns about masked individuals evading identification and prosecution after committing offenses.

The new charge will be added to existing criminal statutes and will apply to individuals who intentionally wear a mask or disguise to conceal their identity during the commission of a crime. Law enforcement officials believe this measure will provide them with an additional tool to combat crime and hold offenders accountable.

"This new charge sends a clear message that New York will not tolerate criminals hiding behind masks," said Governor Hochul in a statement. "It will help law enforcement identify and prosecute those who attempt to use masks to evade justice."

While details of the specific penalties associated with the new charge are still being finalized, lawmakers have indicated that they will be proportionate to the severity of the underlying crime. The budget also includes funding for law enforcement training and resources to support the implementation of the new measure.

Opponents of the measure have raised concerns about potential unintended consequences, arguing that it could disproportionately impact marginalized communities or individuals who wear masks for legitimate reasons, such as health concerns. However, supporters maintain that the charge is narrowly tailored to target criminal activity and will not infringe upon the rights of law-abiding citizens. The new law is expected to go into effect later this year.