Bill > H2802

This bill, titled "Relative to profits from crime," aims to prevent individuals convicted of crimes from profiting from their notoriety. It introduces a new section to Chapter 258C of the General Laws, defining key terms like "crime," "defendant," and "proceeds related to a crime," which refers to assets or money obtained through the commission of a crime. The bill mandates that any "contracting party" – meaning anyone who contracts for, pays, or agrees to pay a defendant money or consideration that they know or should know might be proceeds from a crime – must notify the Division of Victim Compensation and Assistance (the "division") within 30 days of the agreement or payment. The division will then determine if these proceeds are substantially related to a crime. If a violation occurs, the division can seek court enforcement, potentially resulting in civil penalties up to three times the value of the contract, with funds going to a victim compensation fund. The bill also requires the division to notify victims of any such agreements and allows victims to file civil lawsuits within three years of the last public notice. Additionally, it amends Chapter 260 to toll the statute of limitations for tort actions against a criminal defendant by a victim during periods of the defendant's incarceration, parole, or probation.