Conn. Gen. Stat. 53a‑97 – Custodial Interference in the First Degree

Connecticut General Statutes 53a‑97 explained for non lawyers

1. What the law prohibits

You commit custodial interference in the first degree when you commit custodial interference in the second degree and either:

1. You expose the child or person to a risk that their safety will be endangered or their health materially impaired, or
2. You take them out of Connecticut
   This isn’t just wrongful taking—it includes putting them in danger or moving them across state lines.

2. What the penalties are if someone is convicted

• This is a Class D felony.
• Punishable by up to 5 years in prison, and possibly probation.

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

To secure a conviction, prosecutors must prove all of the following beyond a reasonable doubt:

1. The defendant committed custodial interference in the second degree (§ 53a‑98)—meaning they took or kept someone without legal right;
2. Either:
   • The person was put at substantial risk of safety or health harm, or
   • The person was taken out of state.

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

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