California Woman False Reports Rape

A University of California Santa Barbara student falsely reported that she had been raped while on the campus of University of California Santa Cruz. The 21 year-old woman told law enforcement that she had been sexually assaulted and beaten by someone she didn't know while walking on the campus. The woman called 911 on February 17, 2013 to report the incident. After police investigated the alleged crime, they came to the conclusion that her story was completely fabricated. No explanation was found for her actions. She was charged with falsely reporting the crime to a police officer, which is a misdemeanor.

The penalty for giving false information to a police officer in California is up to six months in jail and fines of up to $1,000. It is a violation of Vehicle Code 31 VC which states that "no person shall give, either orally or in writing, information to a peace officer while in the performance of his duties under the provisions of this code when such person knows that the information is false." Similar to this law is Vehicle Code 20 VC which prohibits individuals from giving false information to either the California DMV or California Highway Patrol, which is a misdemeanor punishable by the same penalties as Vehicle Code 31 VC.

Criminal Defense Firm Serving Northern California

False statements, exaggerated accusations, and improperly obtained evidence are all examples of errors and deliberate misconduct which can result in criminal charges. Those who face such a situation should immediately obtain the professional services of a qualified criminal defense attorney who can conduct a thorough investigation into the matter. The Law Office of Ivan O.B. Morse, based in Dublin, California and serving clients throughout the northern part of the state, provides legal representation that is competent, thorough, and dedicated to results. Attorney Morse is a former Oakland police officer who has investigated every type of criminal charge; he knows how law enforcement thinks and operates and knows what is and is not proper police procedure.

Whether you are facing criminal charges pertaining to DUI, drug possession, domestic violence, theft crimes, or any other type of offense, getting immediate and proficient legal help can be crucial to your future. Contact Mr. Morse's firm for a case evaluation or visit his website at www.ivanmorselaw.com to learn more about criminal defense topics in northern California.