New California Law Allows Sexual Assault Cases Across Counties to Be Tried Together

A new California law aims to make it easier to prosecute certain sexual assault cases that cross county lines.

Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Assembly Bill 2147 into law, expanding the state’s prosecution rules for crimes including nonconsensual sexual contact, indecent exposure, and child molestation.

Previously, cases involving crimes committed in multiple counties often had to be prosecuted separately in each jurisdiction where the offenses occurred.

Prosecutors say that process could create additional challenges for survivors, including requiring them to testify multiple times and causing delays in the pursuit of justice.

The Riverside County District Attorney’s Office says the new law will allow related cases to be handled together in a single jurisdiction when appropriate.

Officials say the change is designed to reduce additional trauma for victims while allowing prosecutors to more efficiently hold offenders accountable.