South Carolina § 16-17-720 - Impersonating law enforcement officer.
Full text of South Carolina South Carolina Code of Laws § 16-17-720 — Impersonating law enforcement officer., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 16-17-720. Impersonating law enforcement officer.
It shall be unlawful for any person other than a duly authorized law enforcement officer to represent to any person that he is a law enforcement officer and, acting upon such representation, to arrest or detain any person, search any building or automobile or in any way impersonate a law enforcement officer or act in accordance with the authority commonly given to such officers. Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit a private citizen from making a citizen's arrest in accordance with the laws of this State.
Any person violating the provisions of this section shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be fined not more than five hundred dollars or imprisoned for not more than one year.
HISTORY: 1962 Code SECTION 16-576; 1969 (56) 157.
Source: official South Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina § 16-17-720
What does South Carolina Code of Laws § 16-17-720 cover?
Section 16-17-720 ("Impersonating law enforcement officer.") 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 § 16-17-720?
A common citation format is "South Carolina Code of Laws § 16-17-720" (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 § 16-17-720 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.