2025 Regular Session
SB 617
Discouraging gang activity
Law
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- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill aims to combat gang activity in West Virginia by expanding the definition of ‘organized criminal enterprise’ to include ‘gangs.’ It increases penalties for individuals who join or promote gang activity, as well as those who attempt to intimidate witnesses in related cases. The bill specifically targets certain felony offenses and expands the scope of offenses punishable under this section.
Key provisions
- Defines ‘gang’ as having the same definition as ‘organized criminal enterprise’ for the purpose of this legislation.
- Expands the definition of ‘organized criminal enterprise’ to include gang activity.
- Increases the maximum sentence for individuals who knowingly join an organized criminal enterprise or gang to up to 10 years in prison or a $25,000 fine.
- Increases the maximum sentence for individuals who recruit or encourage others to join an organized criminal enterprise or gang to up to five years in prison or a $10,000 fine.
- Adds a felony penalty for intimidating witnesses in cases related to gang activity.
- Specifies a list of qualifying offenses that trigger these penalties.
- Clarifies that offenses under this bill can be punished separately from qualifying offenses.
- Addresses penalties for those who attempt to prevent witness attendance in related cases.
Who is affected
- Individuals involved in gang activity
- Potential gang members
- West Virginia residents
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