legal
 






 

Question by  bhawna (41)

What is the penalty for lying to a police officer?

 
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Answer by  sonicfoundation (2597)

As strange as it may seem, there is no specific penalty for lying to a police officer in general. However, if you lie to a police officer during the course of an investigation, you could be guilty of obstructing an official investigation and face potential jail time.

 
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Answer by  patti (29325)

It depends on the nature of the lie. Giving a false name when asked is one thing; lying about what you saw or did is another, while lying about or for someone else is yet another problem. Best advice: don't lie to the cops. They always know.

 
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Answer by  worker2746 (2434)

Obstructing justice or perjury can both be punishable by a fine. They are also both punishable by time spent in jail.

 
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Answer by  CarlSCansino (464)

Something as simple as "false report of a crime" or "giving a false name" is considered a misdemeanor whereas "false statements" is a felony.

 
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Answer by  krpmuffitt (223)

Generally, lying to the police is the crime of obstructing an officer and is a misdemeanor. The penalty is different in each state. You will have to check the penalty for your state.

 
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