Any person who shall with malicious intent originate, utter, circulate or publish any false statement or matter concerning another the effect of which shall tend to injure such person in his character or reputation shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction therefor, be subject to punishment by fine not to exceed five thousand dollars or by imprisonment for a term not exceeding one year, or by both fine and imprisonment, in the discretion of the court; provided, that nothing herein shall be construed to abridge any right any person may have by way of an action for damages for libel or slander under the existing law.
HISTORY: 1962 Code Section 16-161; 1952 Code Section 16-161; 1942 Code Section 1395; 1932 Code Section 1395; Cr. C. '22 Section 326; 1912 (27) 775.
Structure South Carolina Code of Laws
Title 16 - Crimes and Offenses
Chapter 7 - Offenses Against The Peace
Section 16-7-10. Illegal acts during state of emergency.
Section 16-7-20. Powers of law enforcement officers.
Section 16-7-30. Powers of national guardsmen.
Section 16-7-40. Article is cumulative.
Section 16-7-110. Wearing masks and the like.
Section 16-7-120. Placing burning or flaming cross in public place.
Section 16-7-130. Exceptions to Sections 16-7-110 and 16-7-120.
Section 16-7-140. Violations of Sections 16-7-110 and 16-7-120.
Section 16-7-150. Slander and libel.
Section 16-7-160. Illegal use of stink bombs or other devices containing foul or offensive odors.
Section 16-7-170. Entering public building for purpose of destroying records or other property.