North Carolina Governor Josh Stein signed a law named after 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee Irina Zarutskaya, who was murdered in August by a repeat offender in Charlotte.
The US passed “Irina’s Law” after the murder of a Ukrainian refugee
The law, dubbed “Irina’s Law,” tightens the bail screening process for criminals. It also prohibits non-cash bail for certain serious crimes, including violent crimes, and for repeat offenders.
Furthermore, the new law limits the discretion of judges and magistrates when deciding pretrial release. Defendants are now required to undergo a psychiatric evaluation before being released on bail.
Governor Stein, a Democrat, noted that this law “alerts the justice system to pay special attention to individuals who pose a heightened risk of violence.”
“We can and must do more to protect citizens.” “That’s why I signed this law,” Stein said.
Republicans also supported the initiative, emphasizing that the new law will help improve public safety and could serve as a model for other states.
What is known about the murder of Irina Zarutskaya
23-year-old Ukrainian Irina Zarutskaya, who was fleeing war, was murdered on August 22, 2025, at the South End trolley station in Charlotte, North Carolina. The suspect, 34-year-old DeCarlos Brown, had more than ten previous convictions and had mental health issues.
The investigation established that Zarutskaya and the attacker were strangers. Police classified the attack as murder on a public transportation facility, a charge for which Brown could face the death penalty.
Commenting on the tragedy, US President Donald Trump called the killer “insane” and said that authorities must act decisively and “take the toughest measures” against such criminals.
