False Reporting to Authorities | Douglas County Defense Attorney

False Reporting to Authorities in Douglas County is the unlawful behavior of making an untrue report of a crime to law enforcement. This crime can include something as small as lying about your identity and as severe as claiming the presence of explosives. Whether facing misdemeanor or felony false reporting, consulting a reputable defense attorney is an important step in protecting your future.

What is False Reporting in Douglas County, CO?

C.R.S. 18-8-111 defines the conduct of false reporting to authorities in Colorado. Someone commits this crime in Parker when they:

create a false report or cause a false report to be transmitted to police knowing that the crime did not occur,
present information related to a crime that is known to be false,
provide false identification to law enforcement,
knowingly activate a fire alarm or emergency exit alarm,
prevent the activation of a fire or emergency alarm

In more severe scenarios, it is also unlawful to falsely report the presence of a weapon, explosive, or harmful substance in a public location or on public transit. Included in this list of items are bombs, chemical or biological agents, poison, and also weapons.

Punishments for False Reporting to Authorities in Douglas County

False reporting to authorities is typically a class 2 misdemeanor charge in Castle Rock, CO. Potential consequences of conviction can be up to 120 days in county jail, as well as fines of $50 – $750.

If a person purposefully causes an alarm to go off while committing an offense, a class 1 misdemeanor results. Sentencing parameters can include 364 days in county jail and increased fines of up to $1,000.

Finally, when someone claims the presence of weapons, explosives, or harmful substances, a class 6 felony can apply. 12 – 18 months in the Colorado Department of Corrections and also fines of $1,000 – $100,000 may result from conviction.

Douglas County Criminal Defense Attorney | Expert Representation

Sometimes people commit false reporting by lying to the police about their identity. In an attempt to avoid further ramifications, a man or woman may elect to provide another’s ID and pretend to be that person.

Other scenarios exist where people falsely accuse someone of a criminal act as a means of revenge or attention. Law enforcement doesn’t tolerate false reporting and punishes those who they believe are attempting to undermine the truth.

Representation from a reputable defense attorney is especially vital to forming a strong defense against accusations or charges of false reporting. Contact our office for a free consultation where we will carefully analyze your unique case and outline steps to the best possible outcome.