On behalf of The Law Office of Gustavo E. Frances, P.A.
People typically think of things like simple assault, driving without a license, or shoplifting when they think of misdemeanor charges. A much larger variety of behavior can result in misdemeanor charges. While these charges are not as serious as felonies, they are still criminal charges with punishments that include jail time.
Recently, a Florida man has been charged with a misdemeanor after claiming that his home was burglarized. According to reports, the man called 911 to report that someone had broken into his home. The man claimed that he returned home to find windows and doors open and the property ransacked.
As police have investigated the incident, however, police are claiming that the man staged the break-in. According to police, the man can be seen on a neighbor’s surveillance video. In the video, police claim that the man returns home for a short time, and the windows are suddenly opened. The man then supposedly leaves the house and calls 911.
Following the incident, police say that they questioned the man and he admitted to staging the incident. The police claim that the man did not want to go to work despite his wife’s insistence and therefore made up the incident. He was charged with the first-degree misdemeanor of providing false information to law enforcement. Like many misdemeanors, this man faces serious penalties including up to a year in jail.
People facing misdemeanor charges — like the man in this case — should know that they have no obligation to submit to police questioning following an incident. Although the penalties are different than felony charges, serious consequences can follow. Instead of admitting information to police, people should know that they have the right to have a skilled attorney present at any questioning and the right to remain silent.
When you need a criminal law attorney in Fort Lauderdale, you can contact us by calling 954-533-2756 for a free consultation.
WAOW, “Fla. man stages burglary to skip work,” April 4, 2014
