Bill > H3597

This bill amends South Carolina law regarding sentence reduction for defendants who provide substantial assistance to the state, expanding and clarifying the existing process. The bill allows for sentence reduction both within one year of sentencing and after one year under specific circumstances, such as providing critical information for investigating or prosecuting another person, or aiding a Department of Corrections employee in danger. The bill introduces new procedural requirements, including mandatory verification of the defendant's substantial assistance by law enforcement or correctional facility officials, mandatory notification to the arresting law enforcement agency and victims about the potential sentence reduction, and a requirement for a formal hearing with detailed written findings of fact by the presiding judge. Importantly, the bill also grants judges discretion to reduce mandatory minimum sentences for defendants who have provided substantial assistance, which represents a significant expansion of judicial flexibility in sentencing. The new law will take effect upon the Governor's approval, providing a more structured and transparent process for considering sentence reductions based on a defendant's cooperation with state authorities.

Justice

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=3597&session=126&summary=B