Inhibiting or preventing someone from making an emergency call can result in a charge or arrest for interfering with an emergency call. In the state of Texas, this criminal charge is considered a serious offense and it can lead to serious consequences such as jail time and a large fine. Many times, this crime occurs when a victim of violence or assault claims that they were prevented from calling law enforcement.
How Can I Be Charged for Interfering with an Emergency Call?
- An individual commits this offense if he or she knowingly prevents or interferes with someone else’s ability to place an emergency call or to ask for assistance in an emergency from any type of law enforcement agency, medical entity, or other agency.
- An individual also commits this offense if he or she recklessly renders useless the phone that would otherwise be used by another person to place an emergency call or to request police or medical assistance.
What Are the Penalties for Interfering with an Emergency Call?
Interfering with an emergency phone call in Texas is a serious offense that can result in:
- A Class A misdemeanor
- Up to a year in jail
- Up to a $4,000 fine
You could also lose your right to possess firearms in Texas. The charge can be updated to a felony if you have a previous conviction for interfering with an emergency or 911 call.
If you have been charged with this crime, then you should contact one of our criminal defense attorneys at the Goolsby Law Firm today for a free consultation.
