Operation of audiovisual device in theatrical facility; prohibited conduct; violation; exception; definitions.

(1) A person who knowingly operates an audiovisual recording function of a device in a theatrical facility where a motion picture is being exhibited without the consent of the owner or lessee of that theatrical facility and of the licensor of the motion picture being exhibited is guilty of a crime as follows: (a) Except as provided in subdivisions (b) and (c), the person is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than 1 year or a fine of not more than $10,000.00, or both. (b) If the person has 1 prior conviction for violating this subsection, the person is guilty of a felony punishable by imprisonment for not more than 2 years or a fine of not more than $20,000.00, or both. (c) If the person has 2 or more prior convictions for violating this subsection, the person is guilty of a felony punishable by imprisonment for not more than 4 years or a fine of not more than $40,000.00, or both. (2) This section does not prevent any lawfully authorized investigative, law enforcement, protective, or intelligence-gathering employee or agent, of this state or the United States, from operating the audiovisual recording function of a device in a theatrical facility where a motion picture is being exhibited as part of an investigative, protective, law enforcement, or intelligence-gathering activity. (3) This section does not prohibit a person from being charged with, convicted of, or punished for any other violation of law that proscribes conduct described in this section and that provides a greater penalty. (4) As used in this section: (a) "Audiovisual recording function" means the capability of a device to record or transmit a motion picture or any part of a motion picture by technological means. (b) "Theatrical facility" means a facility being used to exhibit a motion picture to the public, but does not include an individual's residence or a retail establishment.