Newly-signed Oklahoma law changes statute of limitations for rape cases

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — On Friday, Governor Kevin Stitt signed Senate Bill 1658 into law, which eliminates the statute of limitations for rape in cases when a suspect confesses or DNA evidence emerges.

SB 1658, authored by Senator Jessica Garvin (R-Duncan) and House Majority Floor Leader Jon Echols (R-Oklahoma City), was passed unanimously by the House and the Senate before reaching the governor's desk.

The current statute of limitations for rape in Oklahoma is 12 years for victims 18 or older.

The bill also includes an amendment that expands the statute of limitations on the dissemination of revenge porn from 12 to 20 years.

Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond voiced his approval after Stitt signed the bill into law.

“I want to thank Gov. Stitt for signing this legislation that is crucial to ensure justice for victims of rape," Drummond said in a statement on Friday morning. "The passage of time must not be an impediment to the prosecution of rapists when DNA evidence exists or a suspect confesses. I appreciate Sen. Jessica Garvin and Rep. Jon Echols for authoring this bill that will help protect all Oklahomans by giving prosecutors the tools they need to uphold justice.”

SB 1658 is scheduled to go into effect on November 1.