Section 8-601 - Counterfeiting of private instruments and documents. - Maryland Statutes

§ 8-601. Counterfeiting of private instruments and documents.
 

(a)  Prohibited.- A person, with intent to defraud another, may not counterfeit, cause to be counterfeited, or willingly aid or assist in counterfeiting any: 

(1) bond; 

(2) check; 

(3) deed; 

(4) draft; 

(5) endorsement or assignment of a bond, draft, check, or promissory note; 

(6) entry in an account book or ledger; 

(7) letter of credit; 

(8) negotiable instrument; 

(9) power of attorney; 

(10) promissory note; 

(11) release or discharge for money or property; 

(12) title to a motor vehicle; 

(13) waiver or release of mechanics' lien; or 

(14) will or codicil. 

(b)  Prohibited - Possession of counterfeit.- A person may not knowingly, willfully, and with fraudulent intent possess a counterfeit of any of the items listed in subsection (a) of this section. 

(c)  Penalty.-  

(1) A person who violates subsection (a) of this section is guilty of a felony and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 10 years or a fine not exceeding $1,000 or both. 

(2) A person who violates subsection (b) of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $1,000 or both. 

(d)  Venue.- Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the prosecution of an alleged violation of this section or for an alleged violation of a crime based on an act that establishes a violation of this section may be commenced in any county in which: 

(1) an element of the crime occurred; 

(2) the victim resides; or 

(3) if the victim is not an individual, the victim conducts business. 
 

[An. Code 1957, art. 27, § 44(a); 2002, ch. 26, § 2; 2004, ch. 484; 2005, ch. 24.]