Swatting Charges in Michigan: What You Need to Know
If you face federal or state criminal charges related to swatting or falsely reporting a crime in Michigan, you need a top defense attorney to help you avoid jail and a conviction. We can help you!
Swatting is more than a dangerous prank—it can lead to devastating consequences.
Swatting is more than a dangerous prank—it’s a serious crime that can lead to devastating consequences for both the victims and the accused. In Michigan, individuals with swatting charges face life-altering penalties under both state and federal laws. If you or someone you know is accused of swatting, understanding your legal options and securing a top-tier defense attorney is crucial.
At LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C., we specialize in defending clients against criminal charges, such as swatting, in Michigan courts, giving you the best hope of avoiding a conviction or reducing your penalties.
What Is Swatting?
Swatting involves making a false report of a serious emergency—like a hostage situation or a violent crime—intended to provoke an armed law enforcement response, often involving a SWAT team. While some individuals view swatting as a prank in Michigan, law enforcement and the courts take it very seriously due to its risks to public safety.
High-profile swatting incidents have resulted in injuries, deaths, and massive resource expenditures, leading to the creation and enforcement of strict laws and harsh penalties for those convicted of charges in Michigan.
Michigan Swatting Laws: State and Federal Penalties
State Laws on Swatting
In Michigan, swatting charges are prosecuted under MCL 750.411a, which criminalizes false reports of crimes. Depending on the outcomes of the false report, penalties can vary:
- False Report Without Harm: Up to four (4) years in prison and fines up to $2,000.
- Injury Resulting from Swatting: Up to 10 years in prison and fines between $5,000 and $25,000.
- Death Resulting from Swatting: Up to 15 years in prison and fines between $25,000 and $50,000.
Michigan courts can also require those convicted to reimburse local governments for the emergency response costs, which often total tens of thousands of dollars.
Federal Laws on Swatting
Swatting in Michigan may also be charged federally under statutes such as 18 U.S.C. § 1038 (False Information and Hoaxes) or 18 U.S.C. § 1343 (Wire Fraud). Penalties for federal swatting charges in Michigan’s federal courts, such as the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, can include:
- False Information: Up to five (5) years in federal prison.
- Hoaxes Leading to Injury or Death: Up to 20 years in federal prison.
- Use of Interstate Communication (e.g., Phone or Internet): Severe enhancements under federal sentencing guidelines.
Federal swatting charges in Michigan are often more aggressively prosecuted, making an experienced defense attorney critical.
Personal and Legal Consequences of Swatting
If you are convicted of swatting in Michigan, the consequences extend beyond legal penalties. A criminal record can severely impact your future, including:
- Loss of employment opportunities.
- Barriers to professional licensing or education.
- Strained family relationships and public reputation.
- Loss of a professional license.
- Loss of firearm and voting rights.
- Immigration consequences, such as deportation.
The emotional toll and stress of facing charges are immense, but you can fight to protect your future with the right defense team.
Defending Against Swatting Charges
An effective defense against swatting requires a thorough understanding of Michigan and federal laws, all available defenses, and the skill and resources to build a strategic approach and defense. Some common defenses include:
- Lack of Intent: Proving you did not intend to create a false emergency or cause harm.
- Mistaken Identity: Demonstrating that someone else made the false report.
- Insufficient Evidence: Challenging the prosecution’s evidence, such as phone records or witness testimony.
At LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, we leave no stone unturned when it comes to defending our clients. We analyze every detail of the case, including police conduct, procedural violations, and potential mitigating factors.
Why Choose LEWIS & DICKSTEIN for Your Defense?
Facing swatting charges in Michigan requires a defense team with the skill, knowledge, and determination to protect your rights. Here’s why LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. is the best choice:
- Decades of Criminal Defense Experience: Our attorneys have successfully defended thousands of clients in state and federal courts across Michigan on swatting and other criminal charges.
- Deep Knowledge of Michigan and Federal Courts: We understand the local legal landscape and have strong, respectful relationships with judges and prosecutors throughout the state.
- Aggressive Advocacy: We fight tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients, whether dismissal, reduced charges, or acquittal.
We know how overwhelming criminal charges, such as swatting, can be in Michigan, and we’re here to guide you through every step of the process with compassion and professionalism.
What to Do If You’re Charged with or Accused of Swatting
If you face swatting charges in Michigan, it is vital that you follow these guidelines:
- Do Not Speak to Law Enforcement: Anything you say to police officers or law enforcement agents can and will be used against you. Exercise your right to remain silent.
- Contact an Experienced Defense Attorney Immediately: Time is critical. The sooner we can begin building your defense, the better your chances of avoiding charges, a conviction, and jail.
- Gather Documentation: Keep records of any relevant communications, witnesses, or events that may support your case.
Contact LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. Today
If you are facing swatting charges in Michigan, you need a defense team that will relentlessly fight for you. The attorneys at LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C., are known for their unwavering commitment to achieving the best outcomes for their clients. Don’t wait—your future is too important to leave to chance.
Call us now for a free and confidential consultation. We’ll review your case, answer your questions, and develop a tailored strategy to protect your rights and freedom.
Call us today at (248) 263-6800 for a free consultation or complete an online Request for Assistance Form. We will contact you promptly and find a way to help you.
We will find a way to help you.
We Are Not Afraid to Win!
