(a) When, by reason of an investigation under section twenty-one of this article or otherwise, the board has reason to believe that any person or firm has knowingly engaged in acts or practices that constitute a violation of section twenty-six of this article, the board may bring its information to the attention of the Attorney General or other appropriate law-enforcement officer who may cause appropriate criminal proceedings to be brought thereon.
(b) Any person or firm who knowingly violates any provision of section twenty-six of this article is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be fined not more than $1,000 or imprisoned in the county or regional jail not more than one year, or both fined and imprisoned.