The bill H. 3522 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by adding Section 16-3-605, which defines "strangulation" and establishes the offenses of strangulation and aggravated strangulation. Strangulation is defined as the restriction of airflow or blood circulation through external pressure to the throat or neck, or by blocking the nose or mouth, regardless of visible injury or intent to cause harm. The bill outlines penalties for these offenses, with strangulation punishable by imprisonment of three to ten years, while aggravated strangulation, which includes specific aggravating factors such as prior convictions or the use of deadly weapons, carries a penalty of ten to twenty years.

Additionally, the bill mandates that law enforcement inform victims of the potential serious internal injuries associated with strangulation and encourage them to seek medical attention. It clarifies that the absence of visible physical injury does not negate the offense, and it provides affirmative defenses for actions taken as part of necessary medical procedures or with the victim's consent. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 16-3-605
Latest Version: 16-3-605