Arizona Senate bill aims to crack down on ‘paid rioters’ & seize their property

‘Rioting in Arizona could soon result in charges under organized crime laws, according to a new bill approved by the state Senate. Republicans want to crack down on “paid rioters,” while Democrats warned of “chilling” effects on protests.
SB1142 would make participating in or helping organize a protest that turns violent a criminal offense under the state’s racketeering (RICO) laws. Even those who have committed no overt action could be prosecuted on charges of conspiracy to riot, and their property seized under RICO statutes, AP reported.
The bill was proposed by Senator Sonny Borrelli (R- Lake Havasu City), who said it was needed to deter violent riots and go after groups paying protesters, according to Arizona Capitol Times.’
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