Is it a Class E crime for law enforcement to improperly dispose of traffic summons forms?

Improper disposal of traffic summons forms by law enforcement constitutes a Class E crime due to the sensitive nature of the documents. Traffic summons forms contain personal and identifiable information about individuals, and their careless or intentional mishandling poses a risk to privacy and the integrity of law enforcement processes. Class E crimes in Maine are defined as the least severe category of crimes but still carry significant legal implications. By classifying such actions as a crime, it emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper procedures for handling law enforcement documentation to ensure accountability and protect citizens' rights. This classification serves as a deterrent against negligence or misconduct among law enforcement personnel concerning their official duties.