Connecticut General Statutes 53a‑109. – Criminal trespass in the third degree: Class C or class B misdemeanor

Connecticut General Statutes 53a‑109 explained for non lawyers

1. What the law prohibits

You commit criminal trespass in the third degree when you knowingly enter or stay in a place you’re not allowed to be, and that location is either:

• Posted, fenced, or enclosed to keep people out, or is state property near a state institution,
• A premises for hunting, trapping, or fishing, without permission, or
• Public land that’s posted or fenced to keep intruders out.

2. What the penalties are if someone is convicted

• Typically a Class C misdemeanor (up to 3 months in jail, and possible fine or probation).
• But if you entered for hunting, trapping, or fishing, it’s a Class B misdemeanor—with a $500 to $1,000 fine.

3. What the state has to prove to convict someone (Elements of the offense)

To convict, prosecutors need to prove beyond a reasonable doubt:

1. You entered or remained in the premises;
2. You knew you weren’t allowed there;
3. The premises were posted, fenced, or enclosed, or you were hunting/trapping/fishing illegally, or you were on posted public land.

For the actual statute, you can visit Justia which has the actual law on its website.

We’re so confident in our Connecticut criminal defense experience that we offer a free consultation to evaluate your case. No obligation, no fees until we’re your attorneys. Find out what 20+ years of courtroom experience can do for your case: 203-925-9200