Senator Shamp Closes Loophole Allowing Early Release for Child Predators on Probation
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, April 10, 2026
PHOENIX, ARIZONA—Former Senate Majority Leader Janae Shamp is taking action to strengthen protections for children and victims, after her legislation to prevent early termination of probation for dangerous crimes against children was just signed into law.
SB 1092 closes a critical gap in Arizona law that previously allowed certain offenders to ask a court to end their probation early, even after being convicted of serious crimes involving children. Under the new law, individuals convicted of dangerous crimes against children will be required to serve the full probation term ordered by the court. This change ensures that sentences handed down for crimes such as child abuse, sexual conduct with a minor, and child sex trafficking are carried out as intended, without the possibility of early release through probation termination.
When someone is convicted of exploiting or harming a child, the expectation is that the full sentence should be served. This law reinforces that standard and removes any ambiguity that could allow offenders to seek reduced supervision before their time is complete. It also provides certainty for victims and families. Those who have already endured the trauma of these crimes should not have to question whether an offender could return to the community sooner than expected. SB 1092 ensures that the terms set by the court remain in place and are fully enforced.
"Victims and families should never have to worry about whether someone who harmed a child will get a break or be released early," said Senator Shamp. "This law shuts down a loophole that allowed convicted child predators to ask for early termination of probation, and that is simply wrong. If you commit a dangerous crime against a child, you should serve every day of your sentence, no exceptions, no excuses, and no second chances to cut it short. Arizona is standing with victims and making it clear that protecting children comes before anything else. I have made it my mission to make sex offenders' lives hell, and I won't back down."
The new law will apply to individuals convicted of dangerous crimes against children on or after January 1, 2027.
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For more information, contact:
Kim Quintero
Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus
kquintero@azleg.gov