MS SB2116

Amends Mississippi Code Section 97-3-19 to add murder of a witness, potential witness, or confidential informant as a capital offense.

Establishes capital murder charge when a person is killed because they are or would be a witness in a criminal trial, serve as a confidential informant for state or federal government, or are suspected of cooperating with law enforcement.

Makes it irrelevant to the charge whether the defendant erroneously suspected or believed the victim cooperated with government authorities.

The motive for the killing must be either the victim's status as a witness/informant or intent to prevent cooperation with prosecution.

Takes effect upon passage.