Conn. Gen. Stat. 53a‑99 – Substitution of Children

Connecticut General Statutes 53a‑99 explained for non lawyers

1. What the law prohibits

A person is guilty of this crime when all the following apply:

1. They have been temporarily trusted with a child under one year old, and
   
2. Intentionally deceive the child’s parent or lawful guardian by substituting, producing, or returning a different child than the one entrusted to them.

2. What the penalties are if someone is convicted

• This is a Class D felony.
• Punishment can include up to 5 years in prison, fines, and possible probation (typical for Class D felonies).

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

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

1. The person was temporarily entrusted with the care of a child under one year old.
2. The child was less than one year old at the time of the offense.
3. The person intentionally deceived the parent, guardian, or lawful custodian by returning a different child (or producing one other than the entrusted child).

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

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