Breaking Bad Outage Sparks Controversy over Misuse of 911 – California Penal Code Section 148.3
When you catch a meth kingpin in the act, it might be a good time to call 911. But when that meth-making drug mogul is really just Walter White in an episode of the popular television series “Breaking Bad,” it is not necessary to call the emergency number. And when you can’t watch the latest meth drama on “Breaking Bad” because of a cable outage in your area, calling the emergency number is considered a misuse of 911.
The misuse of 911 can be a very serious offense under California Penal Code Section 148.3 and could result in jail time. While normally considered a misdemeanor, it can be considered a felony in some cases. If you are facing charges of misusing 911, it is important that you hire an experienced criminal defense attorney to help you avoid jail time and hefty fines.
Examples of Misuse of 911
Recently, a cable outage in Fairfield, Conn. during an episode of “Breaking Bad” caused outrage. Angry Cablevision customers dialed 911 in hopes of getting their cable problems fixed. The local police received so many calls, they felt the need to post a message on their Facebook page pointing out the misuse of 911 and asking all frustrated TV viewers to direct their anger to Cablevision.
However, Connecticut is not the only state experiencing unnecessary calls being placed to 911. A New Hampshire woman was recently arrested after calling 911 for the 10th time this month, this time to ask for a pen. She is currently being held on $5,000 bail.
Punishment for Misuse of 911
While there are some interesting cases of people misusing 911, it is a serious crime and misusing the emergency hotline could be preventing someone who really needs help from getting through. Under California Penal Code Section 148.3, you can be charged with a misdemeanor for willfully using the 911 system for any purpose other than reporting an emergency. You can also be charged with a felony if another individual is injured or dies as a result of emergency services responding to your false call.
If you are charged with a misdemeanor for the misuse of 911 in California, you can be sentenced to one year in county jail. The judge does have discretion to grant you probation with little or no jail time.
If your false alarm causes an injury or death and you are charged with a felony, the judge can sentence you to up to three years in state prison.
How Wallin & Klarich Can Help You
There is never a crime that can be considered funny, even when it is difficult to see the negative effects it has on others. The misuse of 911 may seem harmless, especially when compared to the drug crimes of kingpin Walter White, but you could be facing serious punishment if you are charged with the crime.
If you are being charged with misuse of 911 – or distributing meth – contact the experienced criminal defense attorneys at Wallin & Klarich. We have over 40 years of experience successfully defending clients against all types of criminal charges. Call us at (877) 466-5245 – but please don’t call us to help you when your cable goes out. We will get through this together.
