False Reporting of a Crime

Filing a false police report and giving false information to law enforcement are common offenses in Florida, and many of the defendants have little or no prior criminal record. The majority of defendants who are charged with false reporting of a crime did so under duress or after being involved in a stressful situation. The problem with filing a false police report or making a false statement is that you cannot simply take it back. Florida prosecutors and law enforcement agencies take this offense seriously, and will seek punishment even for defendants who have a valid explanation for their actions. If you have filed a false report of a crime, or made a false statement to a law enforcement officer do not talk to the police without first contacting a criminal defense lawyer. Benjamin Herbst is a South Florida criminal lawyer who specializes in charges for false reporting of a crime. He has successfully defended numerous clients who have been charged with this offense, and continues to fight for dismissals in each and every case. Benjamin is available to discuss your charges anytime at (954) 543-0305, and can meet 7 days a week at his Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach offices. He is also willing to travel to more convenient locations anywhere from Miami to Fort Pierce to discuss your case. Benjamin is an experienced criminal lawyer practicing in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, Martin and St. Lucie Counties.

Any person who willfully provides a law enforcement officer with false information concerning the commission of a crime, or who files a false police report faces first-degree misdemeanor charges in county court. Repeat offenders may face third-degree felony charges in the circuit court. The state must prove that the person knew the statement or report was false though, so it may be a defense that the person relied on inaccurate information. It may also be a defense if the person was forced or coerced to file the false report or make the false statement. The defense of duress is a common issue in charges for making a false report, as defendants facing more serious charges often reach out to other people for help, and end up roping them into a criminal conspiracy. Benjamin is a South Florida criminal defense lawyer who has extensive experience representing clients charged with giving false information to law enforcement and filing false police reports. He understands that many defendants never intended to become involved in a criminal act, and fights tooth and nail to clear his client’s name. Benjamin does whatever it takes to have the charges dropped or reduced before trial, and has also prevailed in numerous jury trials in county and circuit court.

Filing a false police report and making false statements are especially common in cases involving domestic relationships. We have defended numerous cases where defendants were charged with attempting to have a current or former spouse, boyfriend or girlfriend charged. Sometimes there are reasonable explanations, and other times it was just a lapse in judgment. Either way, Benjamin will search for any possible angle to convince the state to enter a dismissal. He understands the complex nature of domestic situations, and has the skill and patience to work with his clients for the best possible outcome.

Making a false statement to a police officer is also common in juvenile court. Juveniles often attempt to avoid trouble by fabricating certain events, and lying about their identity. These attempts are rarely successful, and charges for making false statements about the commission of a crime often follow. Benjamin understands the unique issues involved with defending juveniles, and knows how to communicate with younger defendants in a way to earn their trust. He also places a great deal of importance on constant communication with the families of his juvenile clients. If your child has been charged with any offense in Florida contact juvenile criminal defense lawyer Benjamin Herbst for a free consultation.