Filing a false report in Arizona is a criminal offense that can carry serious consequences. Under Arizona law, it is illegal to knowingly make a false statement or provide false information to law enforcement agencies, which includes the crime of false reporting. This includes creating a false police report about a crime that never happened or falsely accusing someone of a crime they didn’t commit.

These charges are more common than many people realize and are often tied to disputes, misunderstandings, or efforts to gain an advantage in civil or family matters.

In Arizona, false reporting is taken seriously because it interferes with the orderly operation of a law enforcement agency. Police departments depend on accurate information to investigate crimes, allocate resources, and protect the public. Making a false report wastes valuable time and resources and can even result in wrongful arrests. That’s why law enforcement in Arizona aggressively pursues charges in these cases.

This article will cover the following subtopics:

• What is Considered a False Report Under Arizona Law?
• Common Scenarios Where False Reporting Can Occur
• Penalties for Filing a False Police Report in Arizona
• Defenses for False Reporting Charges
• Real-World Examples of False Reporting in Arizona
• FAQs About Being Charged With False Reporting
• Important Things to Remember
• How Shah Law Firm Can Help You Fight a False Reporting Charge

This article will explain what constitutes a false police report under ARS 13-2907.01, the penalties someone may face, typical examples of false reporting, and the potential defenses. If you or someone you know has been charged with false reporting, understanding the law and your rights is critical to protecting your future.

What is Considered a False Report Under Arizona Law?

Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) §13-2907.01 makes it a crime to make a false report to a law enforcement agency knowingly. The statute reads:

“It is unlawful for a person to knowingly make to a law enforcement agency of either this state or a political subdivision of this state a false, fraudulent or unfounded report or statement or to knowingly misrepresent a fact to interfere with the orderly operation of a law enforcement agency or mislead a peace officer.”

Simply put, if you knowingly make a false statement, file a false police report, or otherwise mislead a police officer, you could face criminal charges. The law applies to state and local law enforcement agencies and covers in-person and written reports, emphasizing the importance of truthfulness in reporting to law enforcement agencies.

This includes:

• Reporting a crime that never happened
• Making up details about an actual incident
• Naming an innocent person as a suspect
• Providing false witness statements

The consequences can be significant even if the false report was made in a moment of anger or fear.

Common Scenarios Where False Reporting Can Occur

False reporting can occur in a variety of real-life situations. In Arizona, some of the most common include:

1. Domestic Disputes
   Someone might file a false report of domestic violence to gain leverage in a divorce or custody case. Even if the report is later recanted, the damage may already be done.
2. College Town Incidents
   In cities like Tempe or Tucson, a student who gets stopped by the police might lie to avoid getting in trouble, resulting in a false reporting charge.
3. Insurance Fraud
   Filing a false police report claiming a car or property was stolen when it wasn’t is a common tactic in fraudulent insurance claims.
4. Revenge or Retaliation
   Someone might falsely accuse another person of a crime to get back at them for a personal grievance.
5. Misunderstandings or Mistaken Identity
   Sometimes a person may make a false report because they believe something happened, but later evidence shows it did not. Intent plays a key role in determining criminal charges.

Each of these examples highlights how a false report, whether intentional or not, can quickly escalate into criminal charges in Arizona.

Penalties for Filing a False Police Report in Arizona

Under ARS §13-2907.01, making a false report is classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor in Arizona. This is the most serious level of misdemeanor under state law.

A Class 1 misdemeanor conviction can result in:

• Up to 6 months in jail
  
• Up to $2,500 in fines (plus surcharges)
  
• Up to 3 years of probation

In addition, a conviction can lead to a permanent criminal record, affecting future job opportunities, professional licensing, and public reputation. If the false report leads to another person being arrested or falsely investigated, the penalties may be even more severe.

Defenses for False Reporting Charges

If you’ve been charged with false reporting, it’s important to understand the legal defenses available. Not every case is cut and dry; an experienced criminal defense attorney can evaluate the facts and challenge the charges. Common defenses include:

1. Lack of Intent
   You must have knowingly made a false statement. You may have a strong defense if it was an honest mistake or misunderstanding.
2. No False Information Was Provided
   Sometimes, law enforcement may misinterpret your statement. Your attorney can clarify if you didn’t provide false information.
3. Recanting the Statement
   While recanting doesn’t automatically protect you, coming forward with the truth early can help mitigate consequences.
4. Violation of Rights
   Any statements you made might be inadmissible if you were pressured or did not read your Miranda rights.
5. Insufficient Evidence
   The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that your report was knowingly false, especially in cases of false reporting to law enforcement. Without solid evidence, the case may not hold up.

Attorney Arja Shah has successfully defended clients facing false reporting to law enforcement charges by leveraging these and other defenses. Her experience with Arizona courts and prosecutors allows her to identify weak points in the state’s case and negotiate reduced penalties or dismissals where possible.

Real-World Examples of False Reporting in Arizona

Example 1: Falsely Reporting a Stolen Car for Insurance Money
In Phoenix, a man reported that his car had been stolen and filed a police report. Investigators later found the vehicle abandoned nearby and determined the report was a scheme to collect insurance money. He was charged with making a false report and insurance fraud.

Example 2: False Accusation During Custody Battle
A woman in Mesa accused her ex of hitting her during a child custody exchange, which could lead to severe consequences for false reporting. Security footage from a nearby store proved the allegation was untrue, demonstrating the serious consequences of false reporting. She faced charges for making a false report to a law enforcement agency.

Example 3: College Student Lies About Robbery
At ASU in Tempe, a student claimed to be robbed at knifepoint to avoid explaining missing money to parents. Police reviewed footage and saw that no robbery had occurred. The student was charged with filing an unfounded report.

5 FAQs About Being Charged With False Reporting

⑴ What if I didn’t mean to lie to the police?
Intent matters under ARS 13-2907.01. If you didn’t knowingly make a false statement, your attorney may be able to argue against the charge.

⑵ Can I go to jail for a false report in Arizona?
Yes. It’s a Class 1 misdemeanor, which means up to 6 months in jail.

⑶ Does it matter if I recant my statement?
Recanting can help, but it doesn’t automatically erase the crime. The state can still press charges.

⑷ Can a conviction be expunged?
Arizona doesn’t offer expungement, but you may be able to request a set-aside of the conviction under certain circumstances.

⑸ Will this affect my job or professional license if I’m charged with the crime of false reporting?
Yes. A conviction for false reporting can appear on background checks and may impact your employment.

Important Things to Remember

• Making a false report is a crime in Arizona.
• ARS §13-2907.01 classifies it as a Class 1 misdemeanor
• Common examples include false accusations in custody disputes or fake insurance claims.
• You can face jail time, fines, and years of probation.
• Intent is a key factor in whether you’re charged or convicted.
• An experienced defense attorney can fight to reduce or dismiss the charges.

How Shah Law Firm Can Help You Fight a False Reporting Charge

Facing a false reporting charge in Arizona can feel overwhelming, especially if you made a mistake or were misunderstood. At Shah Law Firm, criminal defense attorney Arja Shah has handled thousands of criminal cases and helped clients protect their freedom, reputation, and future.

With over 3,000 case victories and nearly two decades of experience, Arja knows what it takes to fight misdemeanor charges like false reporting. Whether negotiating a favorable plea or building a strong defense for trial, she treats every client like a person, not just a case number.

Shah Law Firm, a leading law group, offers comprehensive legal services for cases involving false reporting. Free consultations, allowing you to speak directly with an attorney who understands Arizona law and can explain your options. If you’ve been charged with false reporting, don’t wait until your court date to get help.

Call Shah Law Firm today at (602) 560-740 or complete the free consultation form. Protect your rights. Protect your future.