Florida Statute Criminalizes Disclosure of Confidential Criminal Justice Information
Florida Statute 838.21 makes it unlawful for a public servant to disclose or use confidential criminal justice information with the intent to obstruct, impede, or prevent a criminal investigation or prosecution. This includes information regarding efforts to secure or the issuance of a warrant, subpoena, or other court process or order related to a criminal investigation or prosecution. The statute specifically targets information that is not available to the general public and is gained by reason of the public servant’s official position. Any individual found in violation of this section commits a felony of the third degree, subject to penalties outlined in Florida Statutes 775.082, 775.083, or 775.084. This law was enacted as section 5, chapter 2003-158.
