This bill amends Section 2 of chapter 274 of the General Laws to clarify the punishment for individuals found guilty as accomplices or joint venturers in criminal activities. Specifically, it replaces the term "felon" with "felon; provided, however, that whoever is punished under this section when the predicate felony is a violation of section 1 of chapter 265 may be punished in the manner provided for the punishment of the principal felon or for any term of years."

The change aims to ensure that those who are convicted as accomplices in cases involving specific felonies are subject to the same penalties as the principal offenders, thereby reinforcing accountability in joint criminal ventures. This amendment seeks to provide clearer guidelines for sentencing in such cases, particularly when the underlying crime is a violation of chapter 265.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 274-2