The bill S. 76 seeks to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws to enhance the legal framework addressing criminal gang activity and racketeering. It introduces clearer definitions for terms such as "criminal gang," "criminal gang member," and "criminal gang activity," while establishing new provisions regarding the admissibility of evidence in trials related to gang activities. The legislation also outlines mechanisms to address public nuisances caused by criminal gangs and imposes stricter penalties for racketeering offenses, including mandatory prison sentences and fines based on the financial gains from such activities. Additionally, it expands the jurisdiction of state grand juries to encompass racketeering offenses.

Significant changes include the redefinition of criminal gangs and the introduction of the Anti-Racketeering Act, which defines key terms and outlines penalties for engaging in racketeering. The bill allows for civil actions against criminal gangs, enabling injured parties to seek damages, injunctions, and attorney's fees. It also emphasizes the protection of innocent individuals' rights and maintains the confidentiality of informants in civil actions. Overall, the legislation aims to bolster the state's capacity to combat organized crime and improve the prosecution of gang-related offenses.

Statutes affected:
12/11/2024: 16-8-230, 16-8-240, 16-8-245, 16-8-250, 16-8-275, 16-8-520, 16-8-530, 16-8-540, 16-8-550, 16-8-560, 16-8-570, 14-7-1630
01/17/2025: 16-8-230, 16-8-240, 16-8-245, 16-8-250, 16-8-275, 16-8-520, 16-8-530, 16-8-540, 16-8-550, 16-8-560, 16-8-570, 14-7-1630
03/26/2025: 16-8-230, 16-8-240, 16-8-245, 16-8-250, 16-8-275, 16-8-520, 16-8-530, 16-8-540, 16-8-550, 16-8-560, 16-8-570, 14-7-1630
03/28/2025: 16-8-230, 16-8-240, 16-8-245, 16-8-250, 16-8-275, 16-8-520, 16-8-530, 16-8-540, 16-8-550, 16-8-560, 16-8-570, 14-7-1630
Latest Version: 16-8-230, 16-8-240, 16-8-245, 16-8-250, 16-8-275, 16-8-520, 16-8-530, 16-8-540, 16-8-550, 16-8-560, 16-8-570, 14-7-1630