Assembly passes new evidence rules

Associated Press

Updated: Mar 16, 2012 6:05 PM

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The state Assembly has signed off on a bill designed to keep crime victims off the witness stand during the early stages of their cases.

The legislation would allow hearsay evidence during preliminary hearings. The change essentially would allow one witness to testify about all aspects of the case using statements others made. A police officer would be able to recount what a victim told investigators, eliminating the need for the victim to testify directly.

The Assembly passed the bill 63-19 Friday. The Senate passed the measure last week. It goes next to Gov. Scott Walker.

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