An Act relative to accomplice and joint venture criminal liability
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill amends Massachusetts law regarding accomplice and joint venture criminal liability. Specifically, it clarifies that individuals punished under this law, when the underlying felony is a violation of Chapter 265 (related to drug offenses), can be punished in the same manner as the principal felon or for a specified term of years. The change removes the term ‘felon’ and replaces it with a more general description. This aims to provide greater clarity and consistency in sentencing for these types of offenses.
Key provisions
- Clarifies sentencing for accomplice and joint venture crimes when the underlying felony is a violation of Chapter 265.
- Removes the term ‘felon’ from the statute.
- Allows for sentencing similar to the principal felon or a specified term of years.
- Addresses accomplice and joint venture criminal liability.
Who is affected
- Individuals accused of accomplice or joint venture crimes
- Prosecutors
- Defense attorneys
- The criminal justice system
- Individuals convicted of drug offenses (Chapter 265 violations)
Notable changes
- Modifies sentencing guidelines for accomplice and joint venture crimes.
- Updates the language used to describe those subject to the law.
Bill text
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Sponsors
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4 on record
Primary sponsor
Joint Committee on the Judiciary
Cosponsors
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