Understanding NY Penal Law 180.50 – Tampering with a Sports Contest in the Second Degree

Understanding NY Penal Law 180.50 – Tampering with a Sports Contest in the Second Degree

In New York, tampering with sports contests is illegal under NY Penal Law 180.50. This statute makes tampering with a sports participant, official, or outcome with intent to influence the contest a criminal offense. Let’s take a closer look at the law, penalties, and possible defenses.

What is Tampering with a Sports Contest in the Second Degree?

According to NY Penal Law Article 180, a person is guilty of tampering with a sports contest in the second degree when they[1]:

• Tamper with any sports participant, sports official, or any animal or equipment or other thing involved in the conduct or operation of a sports contest
• Do so with intent to influence the outcome of that sports contest

Examples could include bribing a player to shave points, injuring a star player to affect the game odds, or altering equipment like balls or bats to impact performance[2].

Penalties for Tampering with a Sports Contest in NY

Tampering with a sports contest in the second degree is a Class A misdemeanor in New York[3]. Potential penalties if convicted include:

• Up to 1 year in jail
• Up to $1,000 in fines
• Probation up to 3 years
• Permanent criminal record

Harsher penalties apply if the contest involves college sports or high school sports. Related charges may also apply, such as gambling or bribery offenses[4].

Defenses to Sports Tampering Charges

Some potential defenses to sports tampering charges include[5]:

• You did not actually tamper with any sports participant, official, or equipment
• You lacked intent to influence the contest outcome
• The alleged tampering did not actually occur
• Misidentification – you did not commit the tampering
• You were coerced into the tampering by threats or force

An experienced NY criminal defense lawyer can evaluate the evidence and determine the best defense strategy for your case.

What to Do If Charged with Sports Tampering

If facing accusations of tampering with a sports contest in New York, it is critical to[6]:

1. Decline to answer any questions until you have legal counsel
2. Hire an experienced NY criminal defense attorney right away
3. Follow your lawyer’s advice about responding to investigators or making statements
4. Work closely with your lawyer to build your defense
5. Attend all required court appearances until your case resolution
6. Avoid any legal issues while out on bail that could impact your case

Finding the Right Lawyer for Your Case

When facing charges under NY Penal Law 180.50, key traits to seek in a lawyer include:

• Experience specifically defending sports tampering and match-fixing charges
• Familiarity with NY gambling, bribery, and fraud laws as well
• Track record of achieving charge dismissals or reductions pre-trial
• Willingness to take your case to trial if necessary
• Strong negotiation skills for plea bargaining
• Responsive communication and guidance throughout the process

Don’t leave your future up to chance. An experienced criminal defense attorney can protect your rights and build the strongest case possible against NY sports tampering charges.

Sources:

• [1] https://criminaldefense.1800nynylaw.com/new-york-penal-law-180-50-tampering-with-a-sports-contest-in-the.html
• [2] https://ypdcrime.com/penal.law/article180.php
• [3] https://casetext.com/statute/consolidated-laws-of-new-york/chapter-penal/part-3-specific-offenses/title-k-offenses-involving-fraud/article-180-bribery-not-involving-public-servants-and-related-offenses/section-18050-tampering-with-a-sports-contest-in-the-second-degree
• [4] https://codes.findlaw.com/ny/penal-law/pen-sect-180-50/
• [5] https://nyccriminalattorney.com/tampering-with-a-sports-contest-in-new-york/
• [6] https://law.justia.com/codes/new-york/2013/pen/part-3/title-k/article-180/180.50