Section 20-2B-2.1 Qualified Interpreters Permitted to Monitor Wire or Electronic Communication in Certain Circumstances

(a) Subject to the approval of the secretary, an intercept authorized pursuant to this chapter may be conducted with the aid of interpretive services in the following circumstances: (1) In anticipation of intercepting a wire or electronic communication using coded language or a foreign language, one or more qualified interpreters may be present during the intercept, as long as an investigative officer is also present. (2) If an intercepted communication uses coded language or a foreign language and a qualified interpreter is not available during the intercept, one or more qualified interpreters may provide interpretive services as soon as practicable after the intercept. (b) Before providing interpretive services, a qualified interpreter who is not a law enforcement officer of this state shall take an oath that he or she will provide a true interpretation in an understandable manner to the best of his or her skill or judgment. (c) The state may enter into contracts for interpretive services pursuant to this chapter.

(1) In anticipation of intercepting a wire or electronic communication using coded language or a foreign language, one or more qualified interpreters may be present during the intercept, as long as an investigative officer is also present.

(2) If an intercepted communication uses coded language or a foreign language and a qualified interpreter is not available during the intercept, one or more qualified interpreters may provide interpretive services as soon as practicable after the intercept.

(b) Before providing interpretive services, a qualified interpreter who is not a law enforcement officer of this state shall take an oath that he or she will provide a true interpretation in an understandable manner to the best of his or her skill or judgment.

(c) The state may enter into contracts for interpretive services pursuant to this chapter.