Mother of 12-Year-Old Shooting Victim Pushes for “Jacob’s Law” Amid Soft-on-Crime Concerns

The mother and sister of Jacob Freytes, a 12-year-old killed by a stray bullet in the Bronx, are mobilizing behind proposed legislation in response to the arrest of a 45-year-old suspect with an extensive criminal history. William Ferrer was charged with second-degree murder and other offenses after the shooting that also wounded two adults, though he has entered a not-guilty plea. The family is now advocating for “Jacob’s Law,” which would mandate life imprisonment for those convicted of recklessly causing a child’s death.

Freytes was riding his bicycle to a nearby bodega when he was struck during an alleged street dispute on the morning of the incident. His mother, Migdalia Martinez, described the moment she learned of her son’s death during an appearance on Fox & Friends, recounting a final dolphin kiss she gave him before leaving for work. “When I got there, I just seen my boy gone,” she said of arriving at the scene.

Ferrer’s arrest record spans more than 25 years and includes charges for drunk driving, drug possession, menacing and criminal contempt, according to reporting by the New York Post. New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch acknowledged the arrest on X, stating that the NYPD remains committed to pursuing justice for the slain child.

The family has criticized New York’s criminal justice policies, including cash bail reforms for misdemeanors and the elimination of stop-and-frisk practices. Freytes’ sister, Angelica Coriano, expressed concern that the suspect may not receive adequate prison time despite the charges, citing uncertainty about sentencing outcomes. She said “Jacob’s Law” would eliminate discretion in sentencing for such crimes, ensuring automatic imprisonment rather than prolonged court proceedings.

Martinez described her son as a compassionate and humorous child who was known for helping elderly neighbors and greeting people he encountered. “There wasn’t an old woman he didn’t help with bags or cross the street,” she said of the boy who enjoyed video games and time with family and friends.