§31A-8-8. False statements concerning banking institutions.

Whoever, directly or indirectly, wilfully and knowingly makes or transmits to another, or circulates, or counsels, aids, procures, or induces another to make, transmit or circulate, any false or untrue statement, rumor or suggestion derogatory to the financial condition, solvency or financial standing of any banking institution, or with intent to depress the value of the stocks, bonds or securities of any such banking institution, directly or indirectly, wilfully and knowingly makes or transmits to another, circulates or counsels, aids, procures or induces another to make, transmit or circulate any false or untrue statement, rumor or suggestion derogatory to the financial condition, or with respect to the earnings or management of the business of any banking institution or resorts to any fraudulent means with intent to depress in value the stocks, bonds or securities of any banking institution, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, subject to the penalties provided in section fifteen of this article.