Can You Press Charges on Someone for Filing a False Police Report
Filing a false police report is a serious criminal offense that can have significant legal consequences. In Pennsylvania, deliberately misleading law enforcement through false accusations or fabricated reports is considered a form of fraud and a deceptive act. Not only does it waste critical police resources, but it can also hinder real investigations and prevent justice from being served. If you have been accused of making a false report, it is crucial to understand the gravity of this offense and the potential legal penalties that may follow, including criminal charges, fines, and even imprisonment.
In Pennsylvania, it is illegal to give false information to law enforcement authorities, including falsely incriminating someone else, falsely reporting incidents that didn’t occur, and/or providing false statements of any kind to the police. For example, if you furnish the FBI with fake paperwork you created on your computer that wrongly frames your boss for embezzling money, you can be arrested for giving false reports to law enforcement.
If you have been charged with giving false reports to law enforcement, you need one of our experienced and aggressive Pittsburgh criminal defense lawyer who can defend your interests and protect your rights. Call (412) 281-2146 for a free consultation with one of our attorneys today.
Jump to a Section:
- Laws on False Reports
- Penalties for Filing False Police Reports
- How a Lawyer Can Help
- Defending Against False Report Charges
- Contact Us
Pennsylvania Laws on False Reports To Law Enforcement
Under Pennsylvania law, a person falsely incriminates another when they knowingly give false information to any law enforcement officer with the intent to implicate another. It is also illegal to report an offense to law enforcement when you know it did not occur or pretend to give authorities information relating to an offense when you do not have any information about it.
Under Pennsylvania law, making a false report to the police is a criminal offense that can result in severe penalties. If found guilty, the defendant may face charges ranging from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the circumstances surrounding the false report. The law classifies filing a false police report as a form of fraud or misconduct, both of which carry serious consequences for individuals found guilty. A conviction can not only tarnish your reputation but also impact your future opportunities. If you are facing such charges, it is essential to work with a skilled criminal defense lawyer in Pittsburgh to defend your rights and seek a favorable outcome in your case.
Penalties for Filing a False Police Report in Pennsylvania
Falsely incriminating another is a misdemeanor of the second degree, and if convicted, it is punishable by up to two years in prison and a fine up to $5,000. Falsely reporting an offense or providing false statements to law enforcement is a misdemeanor of the third degree, and it is punishable by up to one year in prison and a fine up to $2,500.
If the offense occurs during a declared state of emergency and the false report causes law enforcement resources to be diverted from dealing with that emergency, the offense will be graded a step higher. If convicted, you face not only prison time and fines but also the long-term ramifications of a permanent criminal record.
How a Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help
If you have been charged with filing a false report, a criminal defense lawyer in Pittsburgh can guide you through the legal process, helping you understand your options and the potential consequences of your actions. An experienced attorney will assess the details of your case, looking for any weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and work on strategies to either have the charges reduced or dismissed. In some cases, a lawyer can negotiate with the prosecution to secure a lesser penalty or alternative sentencing options. It’s important to act quickly, as delaying your defense could result in more severe penalties. Whether the charges stem from an accidental misreporting or intentional misconduct, an attorney will ensure that your case is handled with the attention and expertise it deserves.
Defending Against False Report Charges in Pennsylvania
In defending against charges of filing a false report to the police, the focus often lies on disproving the intentionality of the falsehood or providing evidence of mistaken belief. For example, a defense lawyer may argue that the report was made in good faith or due to a misunderstanding. However, it is important to note that Pennsylvania law does not take the nature of the report lightly, and even an honest mistake can sometimes lead to criminal charges. Working with a Pittsburgh criminal defense attorney is critical to navigating the complexities of these cases and protecting your rights throughout the legal process.
Questions? Contact Our False Police Report Lawyers Today
If you have been charged with giving false reports to law enforcement, you face serious penalties and consequences. Do not delay in consulting with an experienced Pittsburgh defense lawyer who can defend your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
