KRS 514.140: Counterfeit and False Credit Cards in Kentucky

What Is KRS 514.140?

KRS 514.140 criminalizes the manufacture, possession, or transfer of counterfeit credit or debit cards in Kentucky. As card-skimming and identity theft technology has evolved, prosecutions under this statute have increased. People in Lexington and Louisville face these felony charges in cases involving sophisticated fraud schemes.

What the Statute Prohibits

It is unlawful to:

Make, alter, or counterfeit credit/debit cards
Possess counterfeit cards with intent to defraud
Possess equipment used to make counterfeit cards (skimmers, encoders)
Transfer or distribute counterfeit cards

Penalties Under KRS 514.140

Class D felony or higher
Substantial fines
Federal charges likely in larger cases

Card Skimming Cases

Common counterfeit card cases involve skimmers attached to:

ATM machines
Gas pumps
Point-of-sale terminals
Restaurant payment systems

Defenses Available

Lack of knowledge cards were counterfeit
Equipment had legitimate purpose
Lack of intent to defraud
Challenging the search and forensic evidence

Federal Charges Almost Certain

Counterfeit card cases almost always trigger federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1029, with potential 10-15 year sentences.

Clark + Harris Defends Federal Fraud Cases

Call 859-474-0001 — 24/7.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon should I contact Clark + Harris after being charged in Kentucky?

As soon as possible. Early representation protects your rights during questioning, preserves evidence, and often leads to better outcomes. Call 859-474-0001 — we respond promptly to new inquiries.

Does Clark + Harris represent clients throughout Kentucky?

Yes. We represent clients in all 120 Kentucky counties, both state District and Circuit courts, and federal courts in the Eastern and Western Districts of Kentucky.

What happens during a free consultation with Clark + Harris?

We review the specific charges and evidence, discuss available defenses, explain the likely process in the relevant court, and give you a clear roadmap of next steps — at no cost to you.

Related Resources

If this information applied to your situation, the following Clark + Harris guides may also be helpful: