S.C. Lawmakers Consider Adopting Rico Act-Style Bill

Senate Bill 154 could send people away for 20 years, along with fines of $15,000 and over 50 offenses could lead to prosecution.

S.C. lawmakers are considering adopting a Rico Act-style bill to resolve organized crime.

Currently, the maximum incarceration penalties for gang enticement or preventing someone from leaving one is five years.

Senate Bill 154 could send people away for 20 years, along with fines of $15,000 and over 50 offenses could lead to prosecution.

The bill mirrors the federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act.

It would give prosecutors power to break up crime rings that control human, drug and gun trafficking as well as organized retail theft and other coordinated activity.

The bill now heads to the full S.C. Senate judiciary committee for consideration.