Vermont § 2638 - Immunity from liability

Full text of Vermont Vermont Statutes Online § 2638 — Immunity from liability, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 2638. Immunity from liability

  • (a) As used in this section: (1) “Human trafficking” has the same meaning as in section 2651 of this title. (2) “Prostitution” has the same meaning as in section 2631 of this title. (b) A person who, in good faith and in a timely manner, reports to law enforcement that
    the person is a victim of or a witness to a crime that arose from the person’s involvement
    in prostitution or human trafficking shall not be cited, arrested, or prosecuted for
    a violation of the following offenses: (1) section 2632 of this title (prostitution); (2) section 2601a of this title (prohibited conduct); (3) 18 V.S.A. § 4230(a)(1)-(3) (cannabis possession); (4) 18 V.S.A. § 4231(a)(1) and (2) (cocaine possession); (5) 18 V.S.A. § 4232(a)(1) and (2) (LSD possession); (6) 18 V.S.A. § 4233(a)(1) and (2) (heroin possession); (7) 18 V.S.A. § 4234(a)(1) and (2) (depressant, stimulant, and narcotic drugs possession); (8) 18 V.S.A. § 4234a(a)(1) and (2) (methamphetamine possession); (9) 18 V.S.A. § 4235(b)(1) (hallucinogenic drugs possession); and (10) 18 V.S.A. § 4235a(a)(1) (Ecstasy possession). (c) The immunity provisions of this section apply only to the use and derivative use of
    evidence gained as a proximate result of the person reporting to law enforcement that
    the person is a victim of or a witness to a crime that arose from the person’s involvement
    in prostitution or human trafficking and do not preclude prosecution of the person
    on the basis of evidence obtained from an independent source. (d) A person who qualifies for immunity pursuant to subsection (b) or (c) of this section
    shall not be subject to the provisions of 18 V.S.A. chapter 84, subchapter 2 concerning property subject to forfeiture, except that prima facie
    contraband shall be subject to forfeiture. (e) Except in cases of reckless or intentional misconduct, law enforcement shall be immune
    from liability for citing or arresting a person who is later determined to qualify
    for immunity under this section. (Added 2021, No. 29, § 2.)

Frequently Asked Questions About Vermont § 2638

What does Vermont Statutes Online § 2638 cover?

Section 2638 ("Immunity from liability") is part of the Vermont Statutes Online, the codified statutory law of Vermont. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Vermont § 2638?

A common citation format is "Vermont Statutes Online § 2638" (Vermont). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Vermont law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Vermont official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Vermont attorney.

How does Vermont § 2638 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Vermont can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Vermont.