Bill > S05682

This bill, known as "Cassie's law," amends the New York General Obligations Law by adding a new section that creates legal consequences for individuals or private entities who intentionally conceal, alter, or destroy physical evidence related to a crime in exchange for monetary compensation. Specifically, the bill defines "rendering criminal assistance" as any action taken to prevent or delay the discovery or prosecution of an alleged offender by suppressing evidence. The legislation declares any contract or agreement involving such criminal assistance to be void and against public policy. Importantly, the bill provides crime victims with a private right of action, meaning they can sue the person or entity that suppressed evidence, with a statute of limitations of five years from the date the victim discovers or reasonably should have discovered the evidence concealment. The bill does not limit any existing legal rights or remedies under federal or state law and is designed to create a new legal mechanism to hold those who obstruct justice accountable. The law is intended to provide an additional tool for crime victims to seek recourse when evidence of a crime has been deliberately hidden.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S5682