North Carolina § 14-221 - 1. Altering, destroying, or stealing evidence of criminal conduct.
Full text of North Carolina North Carolina General Statutes § 14-221 — 1. Altering, destroying, or stealing evidence of criminal conduct., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 14-221. 1. Altering, destroying, or stealing evidence of criminal conduct.
Any person who breaks or enters any building, structure, compartment, vehicle, file, cabinet, drawer, or any other enclosure wherein evidence relevant to any criminal offense or court proceeding is kept or stored with the purpose of altering, destroying or stealing such evidence; or any person who alters, destroys, or steals any evidence relevant to any criminal offense or court proceeding shall be punished as a Class I felon. As used in this section, the word evidence shall mean any article or document in the possession of a law-enforcement officer or officer of the General Court of Justice being retained for the purpose of being introduced in evidence or having been introduced in evidence or being preserved as evidence. History (1975, c. 806, ss. 1, 2; 1979, c. 760, s. 5; 1979, 2nd Sess., c. 1316, s. 47; 1981, c. 63, s. 1; c. 179, s. 14.) Cross References. - For structured sentencing provisions, see G.S. 15A-1340.10 et seq.
Source: official North Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About North Carolina § 14-221
What does North Carolina General Statutes § 14-221 cover?
Section 14-221 ("1. Altering, destroying, or stealing evidence of criminal conduct.") is part of the North Carolina General Statutes, the codified statutory law of North Carolina. 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 North Carolina § 14-221?
A common citation format is "North Carolina General Statutes § 14-221" (North Carolina). 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 North Carolina law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the North Carolina official source linked on this page or consult a licensed North Carolina attorney.
How does North Carolina § 14-221 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in North Carolina 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 North Carolina.