Oklahoma § 17-16 - Penalty for destroying records
Full text of Oklahoma Oklahoma Statutes § 17-16 — Penalty for destroying records, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 17-16. Penalty for destroying records
Any person who shall conceal, destroy, or mutilate or attempt to
conceal, destroy, or mutilate any records, books, or files of any
corporation transacting business in this state for the purpose of
defeating, hindering or delaying any investigation, prosecution or
suit at law or equity, or any cause of action in any vested rights
of any citizen of this state, shall be deemed guilty of a Class D1
felony offense, and upon conviction thereof shall be punished by
imprisonment as provided for in subsections B through F of Section
20N of Title 21 of the Oklahoma Statutes.
R.L. 1910, § 1206. Amended by Laws 1997, c. 133, § 137, eff. July
1, 1999; Laws 1999, 1st Ex.Sess., c. 5, § 63, eff. July 1, 1999;
Laws 2025, c. 486, § 352, eff. Jan. 1, 2026.
NOTE: Laws 1998, 1st Ex.Sess., c. 2, § 23 amended the effective
date of Laws 1997, c. 133, § 137 from July 1, 1998, to July 1, 1999.
Source: official Oklahoma text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Oklahoma § 17-16
What does Oklahoma Statutes § 17-16 cover?
Section 17-16 ("Penalty for destroying records") is part of the Oklahoma Statutes, the codified statutory law of Oklahoma. 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 Oklahoma § 17-16?
A common citation format is "Oklahoma Statutes § 17-16" (Oklahoma). 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 Oklahoma law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Oklahoma official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Oklahoma attorney.
How does Oklahoma § 17-16 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma.