STATE CAPITOL, PHOENIX –   Arizona State Representative Matt Gress announced that HB2611, known as Preston’s Law, was signed into law today, delivering a powerful new tool to prosecutors and law enforcement to combat coordinated group assaults and restore accountability in Arizona communities.

Preston’s Law, sponsored by Representative Gress, was named in honor of 16-year-old Preston Lord, whose life was tragically taken in 2023 by a violent teen group. The new law classifies such assaults as aggravated assault, specifically when they result in physical injury and involve two or more individuals working together to commit the crime. The offense is classified as a class 4 felony—a necessary addition to state law, which previously lacked clear penalties for this type of organized violence.

“Preston’s Law ensures that those who commit violent acts as a group will face real consequences,” said Representative Gress, sponsor of the new law. “We’ve seen what happens when mobs believe they can act with impunity. This law sends a clear message: if you gang up to hurt someone, you will be held accountable. Arizona will not tolerate organized violence in our communities.”

The legislation was driven by public outrage and grief following the October 2023 brutal assault that took Preston’s life. Representative Gress worked closely with Preston’s family and the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office to close gaps in state law and give prosecutors the tools they need to pursue justice in cases of coordinated violence.

Representative Gress also praised the work of Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell and the courage of Preston’s family. “I’m especially grateful to County Attorney Mitchell for her leadership and to the Lord family for their immeasurable strength in seeking justice. Their tireless voices turned grief into change and helped push this law across the finish line.”

The measure passed with broad support in both the House and Senate and earned praise from law enforcement officials and victims’ advocates.

“We honor Preston Lord by making his name a legacy of reform—not just a reminder of tragedy,” Representative Gress said.

Matt Gress is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives serving Legislative District 4 in Phoenix and is Chairman of the House Committee on Education. Follow him on X at @MatthewGress.