NC lawmakers to propose tougher crime policies after Charlotte light rail stabbing

RALEIGH, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Following the fatal stabbing of Iryna Zarutska on Charlotte’s light rail, top North Carolina lawmakers announced on Thursday that they will introduce new legislation aimed at cracking down on crime.

Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger and House Speaker Destin Hall said that when the General Assembly reconvenes later this month, lawmakers will propose a series of public safety reforms.

While full details of the proposals have not yet been released, both leaders stressed their commitment to preventing similar tragedies. They also confirmed they are reviewing the state’s current moratorium on the death penalty, and may move to lift it.

The announcement follows public outrage over how the suspect, Decarlos Brown, a repeat offender with a lengthy criminal record, was released earlier this year on a written promise to appear in court. Brown is now charged with Zarutska’s murder, which was caught on surveillance video in what police describe as a random, unprovoked attack.

This week, Chief District Court Judge Roy Wiggins said his office is reviewing bond policies and stressed the need for better training for magistrates, who are responsible for setting bail.