DA Flynn responds to governor's call to end statute of limitations in all rape cases

Earlier this year, Gov. Andrew Cuomo advocated for the repeal of the statute of limitations in all rape cases as part of his 2020 executive budget. The New York State Legislature did not adopt the legislation that would remove the five-year limit on the prosecution of rape in the second and third degree when the budget passed in April.

Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn applauds Cuomo for his actions this week in again calling for the passage of this legislation before the end of session.

“While the statute of limitations for prosecuting rape in the first degree cases was eliminated more than a decade ago, I am limited in my ability to prosecute all rape cases until this legislation is enacted,” Flynn said. “This is an important issue for the special victims bureau in my office, but more importantly a law that will ensure justice for those who have been the victims of this reprehensible crime. I will be calling on my partners in government in the New York State Legislature to actively encourage them to pass this bill before the end of session.”