Criminal Procedure - Postconviction Release - Crimes Resulting in Death of Young Victim

SB 640 prohibits courts from releasing defendants after conviction but before sentencing or appellate review if they were convicted of specific crimes resulting in the death of a victim under 14 years old. It applies to cases involving: (1) a "crime of violence" under Maryland law, or (2) a violation of child neglect laws (§ 3-602.1) that caused the victim’s death. The bill directly affects defendants convicted of these offenses who would otherwise be eligible for pre-sentencing or pre-appeal release. The law takes effect on October 1, 2026, and modifies Maryland’s postconviction release procedures under Article 5, Section 5-301.