South Dakota § 12-26-25 - False count or return by election official as misdemeanor--Defacement or concealment of statement or certificate.
Full text of South Dakota South Dakota Codified Laws § 12-26-25 — False count or return by election official as misdemeanor--Defacement or concealment of statement or certificate., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 12-26-25. False count or return by election official as misdemeanor--Defacement or concealment of statement or certificate.
No precinct superintendent, precinct deputy, member of any counting board, member of any board of canvassers, messenger, or other officer authorized to take part in or perform any duty in relation to any count, canvass, or official statement of the votes cast at any election, may intentionally make any false count or canvass of the votes, or make, sign, publish, or deliver any false return of the election, knowing it to be false. No such person may intentionally deface, destroy, or conceal any statement or certificate entrusted to the person's care. A violation of this section is a Class 2 misdemeanor.
Source: SDC 1939, § 13.0927; SL 1982, ch 86, § 129; SL 1993, ch 118, § 30; SL 1999, ch 69, § 52.
Source: official South Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota § 12-26-25
What does South Dakota Codified Laws § 12-26-25 cover?
Section 12-26-25 ("False count or return by election official as misdemeanor--Defacement or concealment of statement or certificate.") is part of the South Dakota Codified Laws, the codified statutory law of South Dakota. 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 Dakota § 12-26-25?
A common citation format is "South Dakota Codified Laws § 12-26-25" (South Dakota). 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 Dakota law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the South Dakota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed South Dakota attorney.
How does South Dakota § 12-26-25 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in South Dakota 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 Dakota.