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    Interfering with 911 Call in Westport

    Interfering with a 911 call in Westport is a serious criminal offense. With guidance from a seasoned domestic violence lawyer, you could more effectively structure your legal defense and potentially pursue alternative sentencing options that do not disrupt your life unnecessarily.

    What is Obstructing an Emergency Call?

    As a criminal offense, interfering with a 911 call in Westport is defined in Connecticut General Statutes §53a-183b as any action—physical or verbal—that prevents someone from summoning police protection or reporting a crime through a telephone or radio call.

    Can I Go to Jail for Interfering with a 911 Call?

    Yes. This offense is a class A misdemeanor, so a conviction in criminal court could be punished by up to one year in jail and a fine of $2,000. It is important to note that people charged with this offense are often also charged with other related offenses like assault, strangulation, disorderly conduct, and breach of the peace, all of which may be prosecuted together to make for higher potential fines and longer potential jail sentences.

    When will this Become Domestic Violence?

    Interfering with a 911 call can be classified as domestic violence when you prevent a family or household member from calling the police may have their offense classified as domestic violence. Even if their criminal case does not end with a conviction, they could be subject to a protective order, investigation by the Connecticut Department of Children and Family, restrictions on where they can go, and possibly even restrictions on who they can talk to. To learn more about Norwalk domestic violence cases, click here.

    Can I Be Eligible For The Accelerated Rehabilitation as a First-Time Offender?

    Unlike many other offenses that qualify as domestic violence under certain circumstances, someone charged with interfering with a 911 call in Westport is not eligible for admission into the Family Violence Education Program. Fortunately, defendants with no prior criminal record may instead be eligible for the Accelerated Rehabilitation First-Time Offenders Program. There are specific qualifications you must meet to be eligible to apply, and then a judge has the final say in granting or denying the application.

    If a person charged with interfering with a 911 call completes this diversionary program, their charge would be dismissed. However, domestic violence proceedings—including temporary protective orders—may still continue during the application process. Speaking to legal counsel who has worked with domestic violence interfering with 911 call charges can be beneficial in putting together an argument for why you should be given the Accelerated Rehabilitation program.

    Speak with a Westport Attorney About Interfering with 911 Call Charges

    If you have been arrested for interfering with a 911 call in Westport, don’t go about your defense alone. Read our hundreds of 5-star reviews on avvo,com here, and then call to get started building your defense.