Harassing a Witness
Often in criminal cases, an arrest or breakthrough is made because a witness comes forward. When someone witnesses a crime, the offender may feel threatened and be tempted to talk to the witness or threaten them to keep quiet. When an offender or other person tries to keep a witness from coming forward with information about a crime, they are guilty of harassing a witness.
The Charge
A person may be charged with harassing a witness when he or she intentionally tries to prevent, delay, or threaten a witness from doing any of the following:
- Cooperating in a criminal investigation
- Testifying in court
- Reporting a crime to the police
- Reporting a probation or parole violation to police or a judge
- Assisting with a criminal prosecution
- Seeking the arrest of someone involved in a crime
The Punishment
The punishment for harassing a witness is commensurate with the degree of the crime being investigated or prosecuted. For example, harassing a witness over involvement in a misdemeanor crime is punishable as a first degree misdemeanor. Harassing a witness in the investigation or prosecution of a first-degree felony is punishable as a first-degree felony. If the offender goes beyond the threat and causes physical harm to a witness or damages his or her property, the offender may be additionally charged.
Contact Us
If you have been arrested for harassing a witness for a crime committed by you or someone you know, you face severe penalties if convicted, including jail or prison time and hefty fines. For sound legal advice and assistance with your witness harassment charge, please contact an experienced West Palm Beach criminal attorney from Eric N. Klein & Associates, P.A. today at 561-353-2800.
