South Carolina § 16-11-20 - Making, mending or possessing tools or other implements capable of being used in crime.
Full text of South Carolina South Carolina Code of Laws § 16-11-20 — Making, mending or possessing tools or other implements capable of being used in crime., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16-11-20. Making, mending or possessing tools or other implements capable of being used in crime.
It is unlawful for a person to make or mend, cause to be made or mended, or have in his possession any engine, machine, tool, false key, picklock, bit, nippers, nitroglycerine, dynamite cap, coil or fuse, steel wedge, drill, tap-pin, or other implement or thing adapted, designed, or commonly used for the commission of burglary, larceny, safecracking, or other crime, under circumstances evincing an intent to use, employ, or allow the same to be used or employed in the commission of a crime, or knowing that the same are intended to be so used.
A person who violates the provisions of this section is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, must be fined in the discretion of the court or imprisoned not more than five years, or both.
HISTORY: 1962 Code SECTION 16-302; 1952 Code SECTION 16-302; 1942 Code SECTION 1165; 1932 Code SECTION 1165; Cr. C. '22 SECTION 58; Cr. C. '12 SECTION 195; 1907 (25) 580; 1993 Act No. 184, SECTION 26.
Source: official South Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina § 16-11-20
What does South Carolina Code of Laws § 16-11-20 cover?
Section 16-11-20 ("Making, mending or possessing tools or other implements capable of being used in crime.") is part of the South Carolina Code of Laws, the codified statutory law of South 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 South Carolina § 16-11-20?
A common citation format is "South Carolina Code of Laws § 16-11-20" (South 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 South Carolina law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the South Carolina official source linked on this page or consult a licensed South Carolina attorney.
How does South Carolina § 16-11-20 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in South 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 South Carolina.