Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law § 4-109
Possession and use of electronic control devices
Effective Oct 1, 2009Added by Acts 2009, c. 320, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2009; Acts 2009, c. 321, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2009.State of Maryland
(a)
- (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
- (2) “Crime of violence” has the meaning stated in § 14-101 of this article.
- (3) “Electronic control device” means a portable device designed as a weapon capable of injuring, immobilizing, or inflicting pain on an individual by the discharge of electrical current.
(b) A person may not possess or use an electronic control device unless the person:
- (1) has attained the age of 18 years; and
- (2) has never been convicted of a crime of violence or a violation of § 5-602, § 5-603, § 5-604, § 5-605, § 5-606, § 5-613, or § 5-614 of this article.
(c) An electronic control device may not be sold and activated in the State unless:
- (1) an instructional manual or audio or audiovisual instructions are provided to the purchaser;
- (2) the manufacturer maintains a record of the original owner of the electronic control device; and
- (3) the manufacturer or seller has obtained a State and federal criminal history records check of the original owner to ensure compliance with subsection (b)(2) of this section.
- (d) A manufacturer of electronic control devices shall provide an investigating law enforcement agency with prompt access to the manufacturer's records on electronic control devices and cartridges sold in the State.
(e)
- (1) A person who violates subsection (b) of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 2 months or a fine not exceeding $500 or both.
- (2) A person who violates subsection (b) of this section while committing a separate crime that is a crime of violence is guilty of a felony and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 3 years or a fine not exceeding $5,000 or both.
- (f) This section does not prohibit a local government from adopting a restriction or requirement concerning the possession of an electronic control device that is more stringent than the requirements of this section.
Added by Acts 2009, c. 320, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2009; Acts 2009, c. 321, § 1, eff. Oct. 1, 2009.