False Reporting charges often accompany other crimes in Weld, Morgan, and Logan County. For example, earlier this month, three people were arrested in Thornton under suspicion of Theft (they allegedly stole a puppy from a pet store). One of the men was also under suspicion of False Reporting – C.R.S. 18-8-111, because he returned the puppy. How can someone be charged for doing the right thing? This offense is charged whenever a person lies to the police about the circumstances of a crime. Let’s take a look at this statute to determine how a person may be charged:
What is False Reporting?
A person will face False Reporting charges as a result of any number of circumstances. The law states a person will be charged if they knowingly:
(a) Cause the activation of a false fire alarm or emergency exit alarm, or the transmission of an alarm to the fire department, or other emergency services; or
(b) Prevent a legitimate fire or exit alarm from being transmitted; or
(c) Make a report or knowingly cause the transmission of a report to law enforcement about a crime which they know did not occur; or
(d) Make a report to law enforcement or other authorities, pretending to provide information relating to a crime which they know is false; or
(e) Provide false identification to law enforcement.
Why did the man get punished for trying to do the right thing?
In the case of the alleged Thornton puppy thieves, the man who returned the puppy told the police he had found the dog in the area. Because he offered information he knew was wrong to the police about a crime, he is facing False Reporting charges. Obviously he didn’t want to implicate himself in the theft. Unfortunately for him, his compatriots in the alleged crime will face fewer charges than he is, even though he did the right thing and returned the puppy.
Why You Need an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney for False Reporting Charges
The Thornton man would be wise to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney in Greeley, Evans, or Erie to defend him in court. This is because an experienced defense lawyer knows the intricacies of criminal law. A competent attorney would be able to make the argument to the judge or District Attorney that the man was doing the right thing by returning the puppy, and may be able to get the charges reduced. Don’t stand alone in court if you are facing criminal charges. You need an advocate to fight on your behalf. You need someone who has stood there hundreds of times before.
If you or a loved one has is facing False Reporting charges in Windsor, Wellington, or Greeley, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at the O’Malley Law Office for a free consultation at 970-616-6009, or submit the “Get Help Now” form. Together, we can protect your future.
Image Credit: Pixabay – TeamK