In the state of Indiana, the law takes impersonation of a public servant very seriously. Impersonating a public servant can lead to criminal charges that have severe consequences. At B. Hicks Law, we are committed to defending your rights and helping you navigate the complex legal landscape when you're facing impersonation charges under Indiana Code IC 35-44.1-2-6. In this blog post, we will break down the law, its implications, and explain how our experienced criminal defense attorneys can assist you in such cases.
Understanding IC 35-44.1-2-6
IC 35-44.1-2-6 outlines the criminal offense of impersonation of a public servant in the state of Indiana. The law states that a person commits impersonation of a public servant if they falsely represent themselves as a public servant with the intent to deceive or induce compliance with their instructions, orders, or requests. This is classified as a Class A misdemeanor, except in certain circumstances outlined in subsection (b).
Subsection (b) of the law elevates the offense to a Level 6 felony if the person falsely represents themselves as:
A law enforcement officer.
An agent or employee of the department of state revenue and collects any property from another person.
Impersonating a law enforcement officer or a government agent, especially when combined with fraudulent activities such as collecting property from others, can lead to severe legal consequences.
Consequences of Impersonation of a Public Servant
Understanding the potential consequences of impersonation of a public servant is crucial. Depending on the circumstances, you could face the following penalties:
Class A Misdemeanor: If you are charged with impersonating a public servant without involving law enforcement or the collection of property, you may be subject to a Class A misdemeanor. This can result in up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $5,000.
Level 6 Felony: If you impersonate a law enforcement officer or an agent of the department of state revenue while collecting property from someone, you may be charged with a Level 6 felony. A Level 6 felony can lead to a prison sentence of six months to two and a half years, along with a fine of up to $10,000.
How B. Hicks Law Can Help
If you are facing charges of impersonation of a public servant in Indiana, it's essential to seek legal representation immediately. The experienced criminal defense attorneys at B. Hicks Law can help protect your rights and build a strong defense on your behalf. Here's how we can assist you:
Legal Expertise: Our team is well-versed in Indiana's criminal laws, including impersonation offenses. We will thoroughly review the facts of your case and explore all potential defenses.
Strategic Defense: We will work diligently to formulate a strategic defense, seeking the best possible outcome for your situation, whether through negotiation, litigation, or another appropriate legal strategy.
Protection of Your Rights: We will ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal process and that you receive fair treatment under the law.
Impersonation of a public servant is a serious offense in Indiana, carrying the potential for significant legal consequences. If you are facing charges under IC 35-44.1-2-6, it is crucial to consult with experienced legal professionals who can guide you through the legal process.
At B. Hicks Law, we are dedicated to defending your rights and providing the legal representation you need. Contact us today for a confidential consultation, and let us help you navigate the complexities of your impersonation case. Your future is worth protecting, and we are here to assist you every step of the way.