Relatives of fugitives who help them avoid arrest while they try to escape capture could face time in the slammer themselves under a new Illinois law.
Gov. Pat Quinn signed Senate Bill 2520 into law Thursday. It reverses a loophole in the law that previously allowed spouses, parents, children, and siblings immunity if they helped a relative on the run escape capture.
Illinois was one of 14 states with similar exemptions.
Helping a fugitive on the run will be Class 4 Felony, punishable by up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000 when the law takes effect January 1.
Copyright AP - Associated Press
