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DE SB128

Bill

Status

Passed

9/21/2023

Primary Sponsor

Sarah McBride

Click for details

Origin

Senate

152nd General Assembly

AI Summary

  • Establishes a new crime of obstruction of justice covering actions that corruptly intimidate, influence, obstruct, or impede law enforcement investigations and criminal, civil, or administrative inquiries.

  • Creates three felony classifications: Class D felony for use of force or violence; Class G felony for concealing evidence, bestowing benefits, or breaching official duty; and one class higher than the underlying offense if another crime is intentionally committed during the obstruction.

  • Defines "corruptly" to include making false statements, withholding information, concealing, altering, or destroying documents, and defines "obstacle" as any effort intended to delay or interfere with investigations through threats, acts, or physical objects.

  • Classifies all other obstruction violations not involving force, evidence tampering, or additional crimes as Class A misdemeanors and grants Superior Court exclusive jurisdiction.

  • Adds obstruction of justice to the list of racketeering activities under Title 11, Section 1502 of the Delaware Code.

Legislative Description

An Act To Amend Title 11 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Obstruction Of Justice.

Last Action

Signed by Governor

9/21/2023

Committee Referrals

Administration6/22/2023
Judiciary6/15/2023
Judiciary5/11/2023

Full Bill Text

No bill text available