MS HB733

Court may impose an assessment against defendants convicted of felonies to cover reasonable investigation costs in addition to criminal penalties or fines.

Assessment applies to cases investigated by the Office of the Attorney General, district attorneys, sheriffs, the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, and municipal police departments.

Allowable costs include investigators, service of process, court reporters, expert witnesses, attorney's fees, and transportation expenses.

Assessed costs are paid to the appropriate governmental entity that conducted the investigation.

Effective July 1, 2010.