SB 973
Creating crime of property disposal for purposes of avoiding debt or asset repayment
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill creates a new crime in West Virginia related to disposing of property with the intent to avoid debts, fines, or fees. Specifically, it prohibits individuals, firms, or corporations from transferring property to another party without their knowledge, aiming to prevent liability for outstanding obligations. The bill covers various scenarios including the disposal of real property and the fraudulent use of documents like deeds to avoid payment. Penalties for conviction range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the value of the property involved.
Key provisions
- Creates a crime of disposing or attempting to dispose of property to prevent debt repayment.
- Covers the disposal of real property to prevent liability.
- Addresses the fraudulent use of documents like deeds to avoid payment.
- Defines ‘theft of services’ to include fraudulent stop payment orders.
- Establishes fines and potential jail time for violations, varying based on property value.
- Allows for civil remedies alongside criminal penalties.
Who is affected
- Individuals
- Firms
- Corporations
- Creditors
- Property Owners
Notable changes
- Expands the definition of fraud related to property disposal.
- Includes the fraudulent use of documents as a criminal offense.
- Adds a specific provision addressing ‘theft of services’ and stop payment orders.
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