The bill H. 3066 proposes an amendment to Section 17-25-65 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which pertains to the reduction of a sentence for defendants who provide substantial assistance to the state. The key change introduced by this bill is the authorization for the Attorney General to file a motion for sentence reduction, in addition to the existing provision that allows the circuit solicitor to do so. This amendment aims to streamline the process for defendants who have provided significant assistance in investigations or prosecutions, or who have aided Department of Corrections employees in dangerous situations.

The bill outlines the conditions under which a sentence may be reduced, including motions filed within one year of sentencing and those filed after one year under specific circumstances. It also clarifies that the motion must be filed by either the circuit solicitor or the Attorney General, and establishes that the chief judge or an assigned circuit court judge will have jurisdiction to hear the motion, regardless of whether they were the original sentencing judge. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 17-25-65
Latest Version: 17-25-65