January 22, 2026

Logan’s Law: A Push for Criminal Justice Reform in Kentucky

Frankfort, Kentucky, January 22, 2026

The Tipton family is advocating for Logan’s Law, following the early release of Ronald Exantus, who was convicted of brutally killing their son, Logan. This proposed legislation seeks to reform Kentucky’s criminal justice system by increasing the minimum time violent offenders must serve before becoming eligible for parole and limiting early release options. With bipartisan support, the bill aims to enhance public safety and ensure that victims’ families have a voice in legislative changes.

Logan’s Law: A Step Towards Criminal Justice Reform in Frankfort

Tipton family pushes for legislative change after tragic loss

Frankfort, Kentucky – The tragic story of Logan Tipton has ignited a powerful movement for criminal justice reform in Kentucky. Following the early release of Ronald Exantus, who was convicted for the stabbing death of 6-year-old Logan Tipton, the Tipton family is advocating for “Logan’s Law.” This proposed legislation aims to enhance public safety and ensure that violent offenders serve more appropriate sentences.

With bipartisan support already forming around House Bill 422, the Kentucky legislature is taking steps to address pressing issues surrounding parole eligibility and early release for violent criminals. Such reforms highlight the determination of local citizens to drive necessary changes in the criminal justice system while also resonating with broader themes of community involvement and public safety.

The Details of “Logan’s Law”

“Logan’s Law,” officially designated as House Bill 422, seeks to reform Kentucky’s criminal justice by increasing the minimum time certain offenders must serve before becoming eligible for parole. It also aims to limit options for early release, such as mandatory reentry supervision for those convicted of violent crimes. Furthermore, the legislation proposes changes to the insanity defense, allowing juries to find individuals “guilty but mentally ill.”

Why the Need for Change?

The impetus for this reform stemmed from the early release of Ronald Exantus, who served less than half of his 20-year sentence. The Tipton family’s advocacy emphasizes the need for legislative change to prevent similar situations for other families affected by violent crimes. Their dedication serves as a critical reminder of the impact that timely and appropriate justice can have on community safety.

Broad Support in the Legislature

House Bill 422 has gained considerable traction, with over half of the members of the Kentucky House already co-sponsoring the bill. This bipartisan support illustrates a collective acknowledgment of the need for reform. State Representative TJ Roberts, one of the primary sponsors, has highlighted the importance of getting the bill’s particulars right to ensure it serves its purpose effectively.

Community Reactions and Family Resilience

The Tipton family has expressed tremendous relief that their concerns are being taken seriously at the state level. While they acknowledge they cannot bring Logan back, they are united in their efforts to honor his memory by working alongside lawmakers to prevent similar tragedies in the future. This determination highlights the resilience of families affected by crime and the responsibility of lawmakers to create a just legal framework.

Next Steps for “Logan’s Law”

As the Kentucky legislature prepares to hold a committee hearing on “Logan’s Law” in the coming week, there is hope that the bill will pass out of the House by the end of the month. This process will be a significant step toward ensuring that victims’ families are given more voice in the ongoing discussion around criminal justice reform.

The proposed legislation underscores the ongoing debate over how best to reform Kentucky’s criminal justice system, particularly in relation to violent crime. By advocating for “Logan’s Law,” the Tipton family exemplifies civic responsibility and the critical role that community advocacy plays in shaping legislative responses to public safety concerns.

As this bill progresses, it will be important for citizens to stay engaged and informed about developments, ensuring that their voices are heard in these crucial conversations surrounding justice and community safety in Louisville and across Kentucky.

FAQ

What is “Logan’s Law”?: “Logan’s Law,” officially known as House Bill 422, is a proposed legislation in Kentucky aimed at reforming the state’s criminal justice system. It seeks to increase the minimum time certain offenders must serve before becoming eligible for parole and limit early release options like mandatory reentry supervision for violent criminals. The bill also proposes changes to the insanity defense in criminal cases, maintaining the option for juries to find a person “guilty but mentally ill.”
Why was “Logan’s Law” introduced?: The bill was introduced following the early release of Ronald Exantus, who was convicted in 2018 for the 2015 stabbing death of 6-year-old Logan Tipton. Exantus served less than half of his 20-year sentence before being released in October 2025, prompting the Tipton family to advocate for legislative change to prevent similar situations in the future.
What changes does “Logan’s Law” propose?: “Logan’s Law” proposes increasing the minimum time certain offenders must serve before becoming eligible for parole, limiting early release options like mandatory reentry supervision for violent criminals, and modifying the insanity defense in criminal cases to maintain the option for juries to find a person “guilty but mentally ill.”
Who supports “Logan’s Law”?: The bill has gained bipartisan support, with more than half of Kentucky House members already signed on as co-sponsors. State Representative TJ Roberts, a primary sponsor of the bill, emphasized the importance of balancing the details to ensure the legislation effectively addresses the issues without overstepping.
When is the committee hearing for “Logan’s Law”?: The Kentucky legislature is expected to hold a committee hearing on “Logan’s Law” next week, with hopes to pass the bill out of the House by the end of the month.