SB 2027 Summary

• Revises the Mississippi Street Gang Act to define "gang" as an association of three or more persons with collective group identity (through names, symbols, tattoos, clothing, hand signs, or graffiti) whose members are involved in criminal gang activity.

• Creates criminal penalties for conducting or participating in criminal gang activity: 5-15 years imprisonment and $10,000-$15,000 fine for felony underlying offenses, or up to 5 years for misdemeanor offenses, consecutive to any underlying sentence; sentences carry no parole or early release eligibility.

• Establishes a civil cause of action for public authorities to recover damages from gangs and gang members for expenses and harm caused by gang activity, with injunctive relief and property forfeiture available.

• Prohibits threats against judges or law enforcement officers by any means (including social media) with intent to intimidate, interfere, or retaliate; violators face up to 1 year imprisonment and $5,000 fine.

• Denies trusty-time allowances, earned-time allowances, and meritorious earned time to offenders convicted of conducting or participating in criminal gang activity.