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MAKING FALSE STATEMENTS TO POLICE IN LOS ANGELES
(0) Comment |Last Updated on: 3rd June 2023, 09:28 pm
The Devastating Consequences of Deceiving Police in Los Angeles
Understanding the Gravity of Giving False Information
Imagine the intense repercussions of being caught providing erroneous or incomplete information to a law enforcement officer. In California, this act of deception carries a heavy burden, amounting to criminal offenses and harsh punishments. Police officers, trained professionals who deal with dishonesty daily, have honed their ability to identify a fabrication when they encounter one.
If you find yourself entangled in the web of lies and face accusations of providing false information to a police officer in Los Angeles County, it is imperative that you retain an expert criminal defense lawyer who can doggedly fight for your innocence. Let us delve deeper into the California statutes that address the grave matter of providing deceived information to law enforcement.
A Closer Look at California’s Laws Against Providing False Information
California Vehicle Code 31: This law prohibits providing false information to law enforcement. A serious offense occurs when someone delivers misleading details, either in person or in writing, to a police officer conducting their official duties. Examples of violating this code section include using aliases, forged driver’s licenses, and counterfeit vehicle registration. Intentionally providing incorrect information is a requirement for breaking this statute.
In most instances, these misdemeanors, coming with hefty fines of up to $1,000 or six months’ imprisonment, result from individuals using false names after being stopped by the police. However, specific circumstances can escalate such charges to a more consequential level.
California Penal Code Section 148.5: Filing a False Crime Report
Falsely reporting a crime, either a felony or misdemeanor, is illegal according to PC 148.5. This law applies to all who submit fraudulent crime reports to authorities, including peace officers, district attorneys, grand jury members, and local and state agency employees entrusted with accepting such reports in their official capacity.
Examples of such fraudulent reports include distorting details about incidents like property damage, theft, or even fabricating entire criminal events. Many embroil themselves in this deception for selfish gain. Frequent scenarios include filing fictitious theft reports to secure illicit insurance money or making groundless accusations of domestic violence to gain an edge in bitter custody battles.
Violations of this statute result in misdemeanor convictions, which attract fines of up to $1,000 and six months imprisonment. However, if the offender also commits fraud or perjury, they may find themselves facing even more severe felony charges.
California Penal Code Section 148.9: False Identification to a Peace Officer
Under CPC 148.9, it is unlawful for a person to willfully provide deceitful information about their identity following lawful detention or arrest. This code covers presenting fake names or any other false identification to officers during interactions.
In Los Angeles County, a common example is the act of giving police officers false names during traffic stops. For a violator to be proven guilty, prosecutors must establish that the accused intentionally provided incorrect information and that the deceived officer was acting in their official capacity.
Breach of this statute results in county jail imprisonment for a maximum of six months and a fine not exceeding $1,000.
Seeking Effective Legal Assistance
California law enforcement takes the matter of falsification gravely, and a conviction for doing so can wreak havoc on your future damaging your reputation and, in turn, your job prospects as potential employers may refuse your application because of a criminal record.
In the face of such a bleak outlook, it is crucial to seek the guidance of skilled criminal defense lawyers, who can deftly shepherd you through the intricate legal proceedings associated with these accusations.
Our reputable firm acknowledges the weight of such allegations, boasting proficient criminal defense attorneys armed with vast resources to adeptly manage such cases from start to finish. We ensure each client has access to all available legal defenses, maximizing the chances of reduced charges or total dismissal.
Contact us now at 877-781-1570 if you face these harrowing accusations. Our dedicated attorneys offer unwavering representation to clients and spiritedly defend them in Los Angeles County courts. Remember, staving off conviction is essential to protecting your future prospects.