This bill amends West Virginia Code §61-11-6, which pertains to the classification and punishment of accessories to crimes. It specifies that individuals who are domestic partners of felony offenders cannot be considered accessories after the fact. Additionally, the bill removes the previous prohibition that servants of offenders cannot be classified as accessories after the fact. It establishes that an accessory to a felony who is a close relative (brother, sister, parent, grandparent, child, or grandchild) of the principal offender is guilty of a misdemeanor. Furthermore, it clarifies that an accessory to a misdemeanor is also guilty of a misdemeanor.

The bill introduces new penalties for those classified as accessories. Specifically, it states that an accessory after the fact is guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $500. In cases where an individual knowingly harbors or assists a principal felon, they may be charged with a felony and face imprisonment for up to five years or half the maximum penalty of the underlying felony, whichever is lesser. The bill also outlines that an accessory to a misdemeanor may face similar misdemeanor penalties, including confinement for up to 30 days or a fine of up to $500.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-11-6