TCA 39-16-404
Misuse of official information
MISDEMEANOR BClass B Misdemeanor
Sentence enhancement may apply
What does this charge mean?
It is illegal for a public official to use confidential information they accessed in their official job to gain a benefit for themselves or help others gain a benefit. This covers trading on inside information before it becomes public. Violation is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by up to 6 months in jail and up to $500 in fines.
Penalty Details
ClassificationClass B Misdemeanor
Maximum Jail6 months
Maximum Fine$500
Penalty SummaryClass B misdemeanor; 6 months; fine up to $500
(a) A public servant commits an offense who, by reason of information to which the public servant has access in the public servant’s official capacity and that has not been made public, attains or aids another to attain a benefit. (1) of the following even if the public servant has not yet qualified for office or assumed the duties:(A) An officer, employee, or agent of government. See Tennessee Code 39-16-401(b) An offense under this section is a Class B misdemeanor.
View on official sourceLast verified: Feb 25, 2026
Quick Facts
MISDEMEANOR B
TCA Section39-16-404
Max Jail6 months
Max Fine$500