MS HB190

Adds definition of "organized retail theft" to Section 97-43-3, Mississippi Code of 1972, defining it as stealing or obtaining retail merchandise in quantities not for personal use for resale purposes, or recruiting others to participate in such activities.

Amends Section 97-43-3.1 to specify that organized retail theft applies to conduct including shoplifting, computer fraud, fraudulent identity use, false information, mail fraud, fraudulent use of social security or credit card numbers, and unauthorized obtaining of personal identity information.

Makes it unlawful for any person to conduct, organize, supervise, or manage an organized retail theft enterprise, or to knowingly receive proceeds or services derived from such enterprise.

Establishes penalties of imprisonment for up to 20 years or fines up to $25,000, or both, for violations.

Allows aggregation of merchandise values and pecuniary losses across multiple acts when committed pursuant to one scheme or in furtherance of an organized theft or fraud enterprise.

Effective date: July 1, 2018.