In February of 2019, a Shawnee police officer was placed on administrative leave after facing charges on interfering with an emergency call.  The officer and his girlfriend were in a domestic violence situation.  As a result, the woman made an attempt to call to police.  The man took the phone from the woman’s hand and stopped the call.  He also slashed her tire so she could not leave.  This behavior is criminal in Oklahoma.

Interfering with an Emergency Call

The law regarding emergency calls is under Title 21 §1211.1.  It reads:

“Any person who intentionally interrupts, disrupts, impedes or interferes with an emergency telephone call or intentionally prevents or hinders another person from placing an emergency telephone call…”

So, as is in the text, you must intentionally stop the call or attempt to stop the call to facing charges of interfering with an emergency call.  The emergency could be a call to 911, police, or any other emergency officers.  Thus, if you stop a victim from calling for help, you may face charges of interference.

Legal Consequences for Interference

Interfering with an emergency call is a misdemeanor in Oklahoma.  Misdemeanors in Oklahoma generally come with some type of fine and potential jail sentence.  However, this particular crime faces extraordinarily hefty fines.  Fines for a single offense may reach $3,000.  Further, you still face a possible year jail term.

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Don’t let this cause you problems in the future.  This crime will be visible on your public record.  As a result, potential employers can see your history.  Discrimination of this type is not legal in Oklahoma, but it is difficult to prove and happens under the radar.

Contact a Tulsa County Criminal Lawyer For Help

Our attorneys understand that when tempers flare, sometimes things get out of hand.  However, having legal counsel when facing charges on interfering with an emergency call is beneficial.  Your first consultation with our criminal defense attorneys is free and confidential.  Call Tulsa County Lawyers Group at 918.379-4864 or follow this link to ask a online legal question.