A bill introduced in the Georgia Senate would greatly expand the list of crimes that could be prosecuted under the state’s RICO statute .
Why it matters: People handing out fliers, littering, disorderly conduct or loitering could face stiffer penalties and RICO charges if the proposal were to become law.
Driving the news: Senate Bill 359 , sponsored by State Sen. John Albers, passed the Senate Judiciary Committee on Monday.
- Some of the “designated misdemeanors” that could be classified as patterns of racketeering include criminal trespass, littering, distributing posters, signs and leaflets in restricted areas, disrupting a funeral or memorial service and loitering or prowling.
- The legislation also allows for enhanced penalties for a defendant if a victim was targeted due to their political beliefs or affiliations.
What they’re saying: Albers, a Republican from Roswell, told committee members that the legislation is “fairly simple in its desire to make sure that people who are committing these heinous acts are held accountable for their crimes.”