Faking Emergency Calls in Texas: Risks and Consequences

In Texas, making a false emergency call is no laughing matter—it’s a dangerous and illegal act with serious repercussions. Whether it’s falsely reporting a crime or staging a medical emergency, these actions not only put lives at risk but also waste valuable resources meant for real emergencies. Texas law addresses this issue with stringent penalties, reflecting the harm these acts can cause to individuals and the community.

This blog delves into the legal consequences, public safety risks, and real-life impacts of faking emergency calls in Texas, underscoring why it’s a crime that demands attention and accountability.

What Is Faking an Emergency Call?

Faking an emergency call refers to intentionally providing false or misleading information to emergency services, such as 911, to elicit a response from police, fire, or medical personnel. The act often involves fabricated claims of violence, danger, or other urgent threats. While some may view this as a harmless prank, it can lead to tragic outcomes.

Common Examples of Fake Emergency Calls

1. Swatting Incidents: Reporting false emergencies to have law enforcement or a SWAT team dispatched to a specific location.
2. Fake Medical Emergencies: Falsely claiming life-threatening medical issues.
3. Hoax Bomb Threats: Reporting nonexistent bombs to schools, public places, or businesses.

The crime applies to false reports made through any method, including phone calls, online communication, or social media posts.

Swattting Law in Texas Simplified

Under Texas law, making a false report to emergency services is a criminal offense. This crime is addressed in Texas Penal Code § 42.06, which explicitly prohibits knowingly making false reports regarding emergencies.

Elements of Swatting Crime

For a charge under Texas Penal Code § 42.06 to be proven, the prosecution must establish that:

1. The defendant knowingly made a false report of an emergency.
2. The report was made to an emergency service organization.
3. The intent was to deceive or mislead.

The law applies whether the false report is made via phone, online communication, or other forms of contact.

Consequences for Texas Swatting Law Offenders

Faking an emergency call can be classified as:

• Class A Misdemeanor: This carries penalties of up to one year in county jail and fines of up to $4,000.
• Third-degree to State Jail Felony: If the false report causes a substantial risk of harm, such as injuries during a police response, the offense may escalate to a state jail felony. This carries penalties of 6 months to 2 years in a state jail facility and fines of up to $10,000.

High-Profile Cases in Texas

Several notable cases in Texas highlight the dangers of fake emergency calls:

1. Texas Juvenile Arrested for Over 100 Bomb Threats (2024): A months-long investigation led to the arrest of a Texas juvenile accused of making more than 100 hoax bomb threats across several states.
2. Liberty County False 911 Call (2024): In Liberty County, a Houston woman was arrested after falsely reporting a carjacking and kidnapping through a 911 call. Her fabricated emergency triggered an immediate law enforcement response, leading to her arrest and charges for making a false alarm.
3. Austin High School (2024): In September 2024, Austin High School was placed on “secure” status following a 911 call reporting an active shooter on campus. Law enforcement responded swiftly, conducting a thorough sweep of the school. The report was later determined to be a swatting hoax, causing unnecessary panic and diverting police resources from actual emergencies.

These cases underscore the real-world consequences of faking emergency calls and the need for strict enforcement of the law.

What to Do If Accused of Making a Fake Emergency Call?

If you are accused of making a false emergency call, it is essential to act quickly:

• Seek Legal Representation: Consult with a criminal defense attorney who specializes in Texas law.
• Gather Evidence: Provide any proof that may demonstrate your innocence, such as phone call logs or witness statements.
• Avoid Further Communication: Do not speak with law enforcement without an attorney present.

Arrested? Don’t Plea, Call Me!

Faking emergency calls is not only a criminal act under Texas law but also a reckless behavior that endangers lives, wastes critical resources, and disrupts community safety. The penalties are severe, and the consequences can ripple far beyond the courtroom.

If you or someone you know is dealing with charges related to false emergency calls, don’t face it alone. Contact the Texas Criminal Defense Group today. Our experienced attorneys are ready to provide the dedicated representation and knowledgeable counsel you need to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.