CT HB05635

Creates six degrees of telephone fraud offenses, each requiring use of a telephonic call (individual, automated, or recorded message) with false pretenses to defraud another person of money or property.

First degree telephone fraud (over $20,000 or extortion of any amount) is a Class B felony; second degree (over $10,000) is Class C felony; third degree (over $2,000) is Class D felony.

Fourth degree telephone fraud (over $1,000) is a Class A misdemeanor; fifth degree (over $500) is Class B misdemeanor; sixth degree ($500 or less) is Class C misdemeanor.

Law enforcement officials may obtain ex parte court orders to compel telecommunications carriers and electronic service providers to disclose call-identifying information and basic subscriber information upon showing reasonable and articulable suspicion that a crime has been committed or exigent circumstances exist.

Requires law enforcement to notify subscribers or customers within 48 hours of disclosure orders, but notification may be delayed up to 90 days (extendable by court approval) if the official certifies the notification would endanger safety, enable flight, destroy evidence, intimidate witnesses, or jeopardize the investigation.

All provisions effective October 1, 2016; law enforcement officials must submit annual reports to the Chief State's Attorney detailing orders issued, including number issued, types of information sought, statutory offenses involved, and investigation outcomes.