(1)
(a) As used in this section:
- (i) "An individual closely associated with a witness, victim, or informant" means an individual who is a member of the witness's, victim's, or informant's family, has a close personal or business relationship with the witness or victim, or resides in the same household with the witness, victim, or informant.
- (ii) "Harm" means physical, emotional, or economic injury or damage to a person or to his property, reputation, or business interests.
- (b) Terms defined in Sections 76-1-101.5, 76-8-101, and 76-8-501 apply to this section.
(2) An actor commits retaliation against a witness, victim, or informant if the actor:
- (a) believes that an official proceeding or investigation is pending, is about to be brought, or has been concluded;
- (b) makes a threat of harm or causes harm; and
- (c) directs the threat or action causing harm as retaliation or retribution against a witness or an informant involved in an official proceeding, a victim of a crime, or an individual closely associated with a witness, victim, or informant.
- (3) A violation of Subsection (2) is a third degree felony.
- (4) A violation under this section does not merge with another substantive offense committed in the course of violating this section.
- (5) This section does not prohibit an individual from seeking other legal redress to which the individual is otherwise entitled.
Amended by Chapter 96, 2024 General Session