The bill H. 3523 aims to amend Section 16-13-135 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which pertains to retail theft and its associated penalties. The proposed changes introduce the offenses of "organized retail crime" and "organized retail crime of an aggravated nature," replacing the previous definition of retail theft. The bill defines organized retail crime as the conspiracy of two or more individuals to steal retail property with the intent to profit from it. It also establishes a graduated penalty structure based on the value of the stolen property, with specific fines and imprisonment terms for first and subsequent offenses.

Additionally, the bill outlines that individuals convicted of organized retail crime of an aggravated nature, which includes causing significant property damage or bodily injury during the commission of the crime, will face felony charges with severe penalties. The legislation allows for the aggregation of multiple offenses occurring within a ninety-day period to determine the total value of the stolen property. The bill emphasizes that the prosecution can occur in any county where the acts took place, and it includes provisions for the forfeiture of property acquired through violations of this section. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 16-13-135
02/06/2025: 16-13-135
02/19/2025: 16-13-135
02/25/2025: 16-13-135
02/25/2025-A: 16-13-135
Latest Version: 16-13-135