James K. Minick

In NC, altering or removing a serial number is generally charged as a secondary offense alongside a larceny offense. Generally, an individual who alters or removes a serial number is doing this to conceal the fact that they either stole the property or received stolen property. As such, there is a public interest in punishing individuals who engage in this activity.

The crimes listed below outline the required elements of each offense and the punishments imposed upon conviction. In order to obtain a conviction, the State must prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt.

Altering or Removing a Serial Number

Elements

A person is guilty if they:

1. Alter, deface, destroy, or remove
2. The permanent serial number, manufacturer’s identification plate, or other permanent distinguishing number or mark
3. From any item of person property
4. With the intent to conceal or misrepresent the identity of that property

Punishment

The punishment for altering or removing a serial number is a Class 1 misdemeanor under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-160.1(c).

Buying, Selling, or Possessing Property with an Altered Serial Number

Elements

A person is guilty if they:

1. Knowingly
2. 1. Buy; or
   2. Sell; or
   3. Possess
   4. Any item of personal property
   5. That is not his or her own and
   6. On which the permanent serial number, manufacturer’s identification plate, or other permanent distinguishing number or mark has been altered, defaced, destroyed, or removed
   7. When the alteration, defacement, destruction, or removal was for the purpose of concealing or misrepresenting the identity of the property

Punishment

The punishment for Buying, Selling, or Possessing  Property with an Altered Serial Number is a Class 1 misdemeanor under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-160.1(c).