14-43.17. Victim confidentiality; penalty for unlawful disclosure.

(a) Confidentiality Requirement. - Except as otherwise provided in subsections (b) and (d) of this section, the name, address, or other information that reasonably could be expected to lead directly to the identity of any of the following, is confidential and shall not be considered a public record as that term is defined in G.S. 132-1:

(1) A victim.

(2) An alleged victim.

(3) An immediate family member of a victim or alleged victim. For purposes of this subdivision, the term "immediate family member" means a spouse, child, sibling, parent, grandparent, grandchild, or the spouse of an immediate family member. This term includes stepparents, stepchildren, stepsiblings, and adoptive relationships.

(b) Exceptions. - Information subject to the confidentiality requirement set forth in subsection (a) of this section may be disclosed only for the following purposes:

(1) For use in a law enforcement investigation or criminal prosecution.

(2) To ensure the provision of medical care, housing, or family services or benefits to any of the persons listed in subdivisions (1) through (3) of subsection (a) of this section.

(3) Upon written request by any of the persons listed in subdivisions (1) through (3) of subsection (a) of this section.

(4) As required by federal law or court order.

(c) Penalty. - A person who knowingly violates subsection (a) of this section is guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor.

(d) Court Records. - This section does not apply to records that have been made part of a court file in the custody of the General Court of Justice.