NC S327

Creates the offense of larceny of timber under G.S. 14-135, classified as a Class G felony, for knowingly and willfully cutting, injuring, or removing timber owned by another without consent or lawful easement.

Expands the statute to include timber buyers who fail to make full payment to the timber owner by the date specified in a written sales agreement or within 60 days of removing the timber if no agreement exists.

Requires mandatory restitution to timber owners in the amount of three times the timber's value (based on stumpage rate), plus costs incurred to determine timber value.

Increases civil damages from double to triple the value of timber for unlawful cutting or removal under G.S. 1-539.1 and increases civil damages from double to triple for injuries to agricultural commodities under G.S. 1-539.2B.

Provisions become effective December 1, 2019, and apply to offenses committed or civil actions filed on or after that date.