Maine § 16508. - Criminal penalties

Full text of Maine Maine Revised Statutes § 16508. — Criminal penalties, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 16508.. Criminal penalties

1.  Criminal penalties.  A person that intentionally or knowingly violates this chapter, or a rule adopted or order issued under this chapter, except section 16504 or the notice filing requirements of section 16302 or 16405, or that intentionally or knowingly violates section 16505 knowing the statement made to be false or misleading in a material respect, upon conviction, commits a Class C crime. In any prosecution under this section, the State need not prove that the defendant knew that any instrument involved was a security, that any instrument was required to be registered under section 16301 or that any license was required under sections 16401 to 16404. An individual convicted of violating a rule or order under this chapter may be fined, but may not be imprisoned, if the individual did not have knowledge of the rule or order.

2.  Referral to Attorney General.  The administrator may refer such evidence as is available concerning violations of this chapter or any rule or order issued under this chapter to the Attorney General, who may, with or without such a reference from the administrator, institute the appropriate criminal proceedings under this chapter. The Attorney General may request assistance from the administrator or employees of the administrator.

3.  No limitation on other criminal enforcement.  This chapter does not limit the power of this State to punish a person for conduct that constitutes a crime under other laws of this State.

4.  Venue.  When a person pursuant to one scheme or course of conduct, whether upon the same person or several persons, engages in fraudulent or other prohibited practices, engages in unlawful transactions of business or other unlawful conduct or engages in unlawful offers to sell or purchase or unlawful sales or purchases under this chapter, the State may opt for a single Class C count, and, in that circumstance, prosecution may be brought in any venue in which one or more of the unlawful acts were committed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maine § 16508.

What does Maine Revised Statutes § 16508. cover?

Section 16508. ("Criminal penalties") is part of the Maine Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Maine. 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 Maine § 16508.?

A common citation format is "Maine Revised Statutes § 16508." (Maine). 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 Maine law?

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

How does Maine § 16508. apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maine 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 Maine.