Tex. Pen. Code § 42.062 defines the criminal offense of interfering with an emergency request for assistance as occurring when an individual knowingly prevents or interferes with another person’s ability to place an emergency call or otherwise request emergency assistance. This offense includes the use of an electronic communications device to request assistance. Additionally, this offense might occur if an individual recklessly renders an electronic communications device unusable for the purposes of contacting an agency for emergency assistance.
The primary purpose of the person’s call must be to request assistance from a law enforcement agency, medical facility, or other entity to provide for that person’s safety in an emergency. This section further defines emergency as circumstances under which the person reasonably fears of imminent assault or property damage or destruction.
Interfering with an Emergency Call Penalties
In many cases, allegations of interfering with an emergency phone call may result if an alleged victim of domestic violence or assault accuses an individual of preventing him or her from making a 911 phone call for emergency assistance. Testimony from the alleged victim of the offense usually is necessary evidence in support of this type of criminal charge.
Interfering with an emergency request for assistance is a Class A misdemeanor offense under Texas law. A conviction for this offense may result in a fine of up to $4,000 and a jail sentence of up to one year. A second charge of interfering with an emergency request for assistance can result in a state jail felony charge. A conviction for a state jail felony may result in up to two years in a state jail and a maximum fine of $10,000.
When you are charged with any type of criminal offense in the state of Texas, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney to represent your interests from the very beginning of your case. We are here to evaluate the facts surrounding your case, present your options, and provide you with the strongest defense possible. Contact Peek Law Group at (512) 399-2311 today and set up an appointment to speak with our legal team.