Millions watched the drama unfold in Rio for the 2016 Summer Olympics. We witnessed two of the all-time greats in Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps wrap up their historic Olympic careers. The drama continued to unfold late at night for a few of our American swimmers. Ryan Lochte was at one point seen as a victim of an armed robbery, but that was just not the truth.
In our line of work we see half-truths and lies on a daily basis. Whether that is from the initial phone call to the police or when a witness or alleged victim takes the stand at a jury trial. But is it a crime to lie to police in Texas?
Ryan Lochte has admitted he lied about being a victim of a robbery. Had this happened in Texas he could have been prosecuted for making a False Report to a Police Officer? This is a Class B Misdemeanor in Texas. A person charged with this offense faces the possibility of a fine not to exceed $2,000 and a term in jail not to exceed 180 days.
A person commits this offense if, with the intent to deceive, he or she knowingly makes a false statement that is material to a criminal investigation and makes the statement to a peace officer or federal investigator conducting an investigation or any employee of a law enforcement agency that is authorized by the agency to conduct the investigation. Prosecuting these offenses can be difficult for the State.
This law is designed to avoid wasting police resources and prevent those from being wrongly convicted of an offense. The vast majority of the time we see this in a domestic violence situation.
It is an all too common situation where an alleged victim embellishes or simply fails to tell the authorities the truth resulting in severe consequences for the accused. Can an alleged victim be prosecuted for making a false report? Sure, but it is quite uncommon. More times than not the authorities will side with the alleged victim.
Criminal offenses involving spouses and loved ones can be very serious. These half-truths can lead to incarceration. If you or a loved one has been charged with an offense involving a family member or spouse it is important to consult an experienced Tarrant County defense attorney.
The team of attorneys at Tarrant County based Gebhardt and Eppes, PLLC are former state prosecutors. They possess the skill and experience to build the strongest defense on your behalf. Contact , Gebhardt and Eppes, PLLC at (817) 502-3600 for a free initial consultation.
Gebhardt and Eppes, PLLC strongly defend individuals throughout the greater Fort Worth area, including Arlington, Weatherford, Cleburne, and many surrounding communities.
References: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3763936/Ryan-Lochte-reveals-REFUSES-return-Rio-trial-filing-false-police-report-talks-Olympic-Committee-stripping-medal.html
