Julie Ogo
REPRESENTATIVE Julie Marie A. Ogo, chairwoman of the House Committee on Tourism, has introduced House Bill 24-43, which establishes a felony offense for desecration or theft of memorials and historical sites in the Commonwealth.
The measure was prompted by the recent theft of a copper deity statue, part of a World War II memorial, marking another disturbing attack on sites that honor the CNMI’s legacy and international friendships.
“If we don’t act now and put more aggressive penalties in place, these types of crimes will continue and send the wrong message to our visitors and our friends from other countries,” said Rep. Ogo.
The bill creates enhanced penalties of five to 15 years imprisonment, fines up to $100,000, full restitution, and mandatory community service. It also includes special provisions for juvenile offenders and aggravating circumstances such as hate-based intent or irreparable damage.
“Some may say this legislation is too harsh — but the reality is that current penalties are clearly not deterring these criminal acts,” Rep. Ogo said.
Similar laws exist across the U.S., where states like Texas, South Carolina, Virginia, and Florida classify vandalism or theft of memorials as felony offenses, often with mandatory prison time and restitution.
Rep. Ogo emphasized that this bill is about protecting cultural identity and preserving international respect, noting, “These are not just structures — they are symbols of peace, sacrifice, and our shared history. They deserve the full protection of our laws.”
For more information or to request a copy of House Bill 24-43, contact the office of Rep. Julie M. A. Ogo at (670) 664-8888 or email repjulieogo@gmail.com/.
