'Jacob’s name will not be forgotten': Family of slain Bronx boy pushes for change
"Jacob's Law" was unveiled at a press conference Saturday outside of the Bronx bodega where Jacob was shot by a stray bullet. The proposal would increase penalties for those whose reckless actions result in the death of a child.
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Exactly two weeks after 12-year-old Jacob Freytes was tragically killed, his family joined local leaders to push for change through new proposed legislation.
"Jacob's Law" was unveiled at a press conference Saturday outside of the Bronx bodega where Jacob was shot by a stray bullet. The proposal would increase penalties for those whose reckless actions result in the death of a child.
Jacob's mother, Migdalia Martinez, said she wants her son's story to push local lawmakers to support the law.
"Nothing will ever bring my son back, but I will continue fighting in his name so that another mother does not have to experience the pain that I live with every day," said Martinez. "Jacob’s name will not be forgotten. I want his life and his story to lead to change, and I am asking lawmakers across New York to stand with our family and pass Jacob’s Law."
Authorities say Jacob was riding his bicycle outside of 104 Elliot Pl. in Mount Eden when a fight erupted and led to gunfire. The 12-year-old was stopping at the bodega to buy a ball when he was caught in the crossfire.
Two men were also shot and are expected to recover, according to the NYPD.
Jacob's accused killer, 45-year-old William Ferrer, was arrested less than 24 hours after the shooting. He is charged with murder, manslaughter and other related offenses in connection with the death of Jacob Freytes.
According to police, the firearm Ferrer allegedly used to carry out the shooting was illegal.
According to organizers of the Aug. 8 press conference, "Jacob's Law" will be sponsored in the State Senate by Sen. Steve Chan and State Sen. Steve Rhoads and in the State Assembly by Assemblyman John Mikulin.
"Families deserve justice, certainty and the peace of knowing their child’s killer will never walk free or receive parole,” said Mikulin.
