Any person who knowingly makes a false entry in any public record, or falsely alters any public record is guilty of a Class 2 misdemeanor. However, if the false entry or alteration is committed by a public officer or employee having custody of the record, the offense is a Class 1 misdemeanor.

Source: SDC 1939, § 13.1306; SDCL § 4-3-19 (3); SL 1976, ch 158 , § 11-18; SL 2005, ch 120 , § 218.