Criminal Offenses - As introduced, prohibits the use of a telecommunication device, with intent to deprive the owner of property, to fraudulently obtain or exercise control over the property of another without the owner's effective consent, which is punishable as theft, but in no event less than a Class E felony. - Amends TCA Title 39.

SB 1920 makes it a crime to use a phone or similar device with the intent to steal property without the owner's consent, such as through scams or fraudulent calls. It directly affects individuals who commit this type of theft using telecommunications. The bill sets a minimum penalty of a Class E felony (the least serious felony in Tennessee) for this offense, while still allowing for harsher punishment under existing theft laws. This creates a specific legal standard for "telecommunication fraud" as a form of theft.