State Rep. Rick Scarbrough, R-Oak Ridge, has proposed legislation to add several offenses to the definition of racketeering activity in Tennessee law.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – State Rep. Rick Scarbrough, R-Oak Ridge, has proposed legislation to add several offenses to the definition of racketeering activity in Tennessee law.
House Bill 587 amends the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization (RICO) Act of 1989 to include offenses of organized retail crime, carjacking, and possession or employment of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony.
“Strengthening our laws to combat organized crime like carjacking and retail theft is a critical step in safeguarding our communities,” Scarbrough said. “This bill ensures those who engage in these dangerous activities will be held accountable and face the full consequences of their actions.”
There are currently 69 criminal offenses under the RICO Act including drug and human trafficking, money laundering and prostitution.
In 2023, the General Assembly expanded the time frame in which two activities can be linked under the definition of racketeering activity, improving the state’s ability to prosecute racketeering crimes. It also increased the penalty to a Class A felony if murder was involved.
A violation of the RICO Act is a Class B felony offense. Violators face a fine up to $250,000, a minimum of 12 years in prison and up to 30 years for career offenders.
House Bill 587 was unanimously approved by the Criminal Justice Subcommittee on March 4 and will be heard in the Judiciary Committee on March 12.
Rick Scarbrough represents District 33 which includes part of Anderson County.
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