Criminal Justice (Victims' Rights)

SB 2602 amends Section 12-10-12 to expand eligibility for placing misdemeanor criminal complaints "on file" in district courts. It allows defendants previously convicted of a felony or facing a private complaint to qualify for this process, which avoids formal prosecution. Key provisions require defendants to maintain good behavior, pay court fees, and meet restitution conditions; violations may lead to case revival or sanctions. For domestic violence cases, complaints automatically expire after three years without new charges, leading to expungement without a court motion. This directly affects misdemeanor defendants with prior felony records, offering a path to avoid criminal convictions under specific conditions.

SB 2316 makes assaulting a sports official (like a referee, umpire, or coach) during their duties a felony, affecting all levels of organized sports including youth leagues, schools, and professional events. The bill imposes penalties of up to three years in prison or a $3,000 fine for basic assault, and 3-20 years in prison or a $10,000 fine if serious bodily injury occurs. Convicted individuals must also pay restitution to victims, complete up to 500 hours of community service, or attend counseling, in addition to any prison time or fines. This law applies to assaults before, during, or after any sporting event where officials are enforcing rules.