Investigative Article: Uncovering the Truth About Unlawful Flight Charges in Arizona
Imagine you're driving down the road, and you see red and blue lights flashing behind you. You panic, and instead of pulling over, you step on the gas pedal and try to outrun the police car. You might think it's a good idea at the moment, but did you know that you could face criminal charges for unlawful flight in Arizona?
What is Unlawful Flight in Arizona?
Unlawful flight in Arizona is a serious criminal charge that involves intentionally evading a police officer, whether on foot, in a car, or on a bike. It is defined as intentionally fleeing or attempting to elude a police vehicle or law enforcement officer who is attempting to pull you over or who is in pursuit of you. This offense is also known as "running from the cops" and carries severe consequences, including jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
What is the Difference Between Failure to Stop and Evading the Police?
Failure to stop for a police officer and evading the police are two separate but related offenses. The first offense, failure to stop, is defined as failing to stop your vehicle when a police officer signals you to do so. This offense is a traffic violation, and you could face fines and points against your driver's license. On the other hand, evading the police is a criminal offense that involves fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, either on foot or in a vehicle. It is a much more severe offense and carries more significant legal consequences.
What Happens if You Run from the Police on Foot?
Running from the police on foot is still considered unlawful flight and carries the same legal consequences as fleeing in a vehicle. If you run from the police, you could face charges of resisting arrest, obstructing justice, and unlawful flight, all of which carry the potential for jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. It is always best to comply with law enforcement, as resisting arrest can only make matters worse.
Penalties for Unlawful Flight in Arizona
The penalties for unlawful flight in Arizona depend on the circumstances of the offense and the severity of the offense. If you are convicted of unlawful flight in Arizona, you could face the following penalties:
- First offense: Misdemeanor charge, up to six months in jail, fines up to $2,500.
- Second offense: Felony charge, up to two years in prison, fines up to $150,000.
- Third or subsequent offenses: Felony charge, up to three years in prison, fines up to $150,000.
What Potential Defense Strategies Can Be Used to Mitigate Charges?
If you are facing charges of unlawful flight in Arizona, you should immediately seek the counsel of an experienced criminal defense attorney. Depending on the circumstances of your case, there may be several defense strategies available to help mitigate the charges against you. Some potential defense strategies may include:
- Challenging the lawfulness of the traffic stop or pursuit.
- Arguing that you did not intentionally flee or attempt to evade the police.
- Claiming that you were not operating the vehicle at the time of the offense.
- Negotiating a plea agreement to reduce the charges or penalties.
Contact an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
If you are facing charges of unlawful flight in Arizona, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney to help protect your rights and defend your freedom. The attorneys at Kolsrud Law Offices have years of experience defending clients against criminal charges, and they have a proven track record of success. Contact them today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how they can help you defend against charges of unlawful flight in Arizona.
For more information, please visit Unlawful Flight in Arizona .
* This article was originally published here
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