Passing Ashley’s Law – Protecting Persons with Disabilities from Violent Crimes

This commentary is the personal story of Paula Vigil and common macro practice strategies implemented to pass Ashley’s Law. Ashley was the daughter of Paula and suffered from Rett Syndrome. Rett syndrome is a rare genetic neurological disorder that leads to severe impairments, affecting nearly every aspect of life. Rett particularly affects speech, purposeful hand use, and coordination, leaving individuals understanding more than they can communicate. In 2021, Ashley was raped by her mother’s boyfriend and passed away in the Spring of 2024 due to the trauma and complications of Rett Syndrome. The boyfriend received a sentence of 13 years with the potential of parole. Individuals protected by Utah statute under 14 years old receive a 25-year minimum sentence. The advocacy strategies explained in this commentary is one mom’s quest to bring justice to Ashley and to protect future victims.