Preventing someone from dialing 911 may not seem like a crime, but under Texas law it is. According to Texas Penal Code Section 42.062, Interference with 911 is an offense and may result in a Class A misdemeanor.
Normally, interfering with a 911 call is a result of domestic violence. Every scenario is different. There are many reasons why an individual may stop another from making a 911 call. Texas law, however, is not very forgiving when it comes to inhibiting a 911 call. Interference with an emergency call charge can be difficult to beat, since most side with the victim.
It is imperative to seek legal representation if you’ve been charged with interference with an emergency call.
Interference with Emergency Call Defense Lawyer in Irving, Dallas, Carrolton, Richardson, TX
Have you or someone you know been charged with Interference with 911? Usually, these cases rely heavily on the alleged victim’s testimony. You need legal representation that can formulate a good defense in response to testimony. Contact Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy today and meet an experienced defense attorney.
Contact the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy today at (972) 233-5700 for a consultation about your alleged offense in Irving, Dallas, Carrolton, Richardson, and surrounding areas of Dallas County, Texas. Our firm will work to potentially get your criminal charges reduced or dismissed.
Interfering with Emergency Call under Texas Law
The Texas Penal Code classifies interference with an emergency call under two types. § 42.062 states that the alleged offender commits a crime of interference with a 911 call when they knowingly or intentionally:
- Interferes with another person’s ability to place an emergency telephone call; or
- Request assistance in an emergency from law enforcement, medical facility, or other agencies whose primary purpose is to provide safety to individuals.
Subsection (b) of § 42.062 states a person can be charged with Interference with 911 if they do any of the following:
- Recklessly renders unusable a telephone that would otherwise be used by another individual to place an emergency call; or,
- Request assistance in an emergency from a law enforcement agency, medical facility, or other agency whose primary purpose is to provide safety to individuals.
Texas law defines “emergency’ as a condition or circumstance in which the individual calling emergency services has reason to believe any of the following:
- Fear of imminent assault; or,
- Fear of damage to property.
Penalties for Interfering with an Emergency Call
Every situation is different. There are always two sides to every story, especially when it comes to family. Texas law, however, is not kind to those who interfere with an emergency call. If convicted of Interference with 911, the penalty is a Class A misdemeanor.
Class A misdemeanors in Texas can possibly result in:
- Incarceration of up to one year in county jail; and
- A possible fine of up to $4000
If the defendant has been previously convicted of interference with an emergency call the penalty could result in a state jail felony.
State jail felonies in Texas can possibly result in:
- A maximum of two years in a state jail; and
- A possible fine of up to $10,000
Additional Resources
Texas 911 – Visit the local Texas 911 website and learn what direct access to 911 means. Learn about Kari’s law and how 911 users no longer have to dial an initial number, digit, prefix or other access number or code before dialing.
Commission on State Emergency Communications – Visit the Commission on State Emergency Communications (CSEC) website and read more on the state’s authority on emergency communications. Learn about the 12 CSEC members who represent various public and private sector interests, and how the members are appointed.
Find A Dallas County Defense Attorney for Interfering with an Emergency Call Charges | Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy
Have you or a loved one been charged with Interference with 911? If the answer is yes, it is vital that you contact a seasoned defense attorney. Do not be idle and let one night stain your record. Call Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy today to talk to an attorney today.
Contact the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy today at (972) 233-5700 for a consultation about your alleged offense in Irving, Dallas, Carrolton, Richardson, and surrounding areas of Dallas County, Texas. Our firm will work to potentially get your criminal charges reduced or dismissed.