Christopher Cook

This statute makes it illegal to forge a document—meaning to fake, alter, or create a false writing with intent to deceive or harm someone. This includes altering someone else's signature, changing dates on documents, creating fake copies of originals, or possessing forged documents intending to use them. A conviction is a Class E felony punishable by 1-6 years in prison and/or a fine up to $3,000. The penalty depends on the value involved, similar to theft charges.

Penalty: Class E felony; 1-6 years; fine up to $3,000

It is illegal to knowingly bring weapons, ammunition, explosives, drugs, alcohol, or cell phones into a prison or jail, or to possess these items while in a correctional facility. This applies to any person bringing contraband into an institution or to anyone (including staff) possessing prohibited items inside. The base violation is a Class E felony (1-6 years, up to $3,000 fine), but charges can be enhanced to Class D or Class C felony depending on the specific item and circumstances.

Penalty: Class E felony; 1-6 years; fine up to $3,000

It is illegal to manufacture, deliver, sell, or possess methamphetamine with intent to manufacture, deliver, or sell it, or to knowingly possess or casually exchange any amount of methamphetamine. Simple possession or casual exchange of methamphetamine is punished less severely than possession with intent to sell. Penalties depend on whether the charge involves intent to distribute (more severe) or simple possession (less severe), with specific jail time and fines determined by related statutes TCA 39-17-417 and 39-17-418.

Penalty: Violation