PL 240.50 · Article 240
Falsely Reporting an Incident in the Third Degree
This charge alleges that a person, knowing the information was false or baseless, reported a crime, fire, explosion or emergency to police or emergency services, or circulated a false warning of an impending emergency.
Has your loved one been arrested or taken into police custody?
Text us immediately · (845) 290-2492What the prosecutor must prove
- The accused made a report or warning described in PL 240.50.
- The accused knew the information was false or baseless.
Defenses that commonly apply
- The report was made in good faith, even if mistaken.
- Proof of who made the call or report.
- The prosecution must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt; gaps in the evidence matter.
- Challenging identification, witness credibility, and the reliability of statements to police.
- Suppression of evidence or statements obtained in violation of constitutional rights.
Penalties and collateral consequences
A Class A Misdemeanor carries a maximum sentence of up to 364 days and a fine of up to Up to $1,000 or up to twice the gain.
Every case turns on its own facts. The information on this page is general, not legal advice.
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