Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers | July 15, 2026 | Criminal Defense
In Texas, intentionally making a false report to law enforcement is a criminal offense that prosecutors take seriously. Sometimes people make statements during stressful or emotional situations without fully understanding how those statements may later be viewed by investigators. In other situations, a misunderstanding can lead to allegations that a person intentionally misled law enforcement.
If you have been accused of making a false report or false statement to law enforcement in Texas, understanding your rights early in the process is important. Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers represents defendants throughout Texas who are facing criminal allegations involving false reports and other offenses.
Why Hire Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers If You’re Arrested for Filing a False Police Report in Texas?
Being accused of filing a false police report in Texas can create uncertainty about your future. Even a misdemeanor conviction can affect your employment, reputation, and other opportunities. Having experienced legal representation can help you better understand the allegations and how the criminal process works.
When you work with Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers, you benefit from:
- Attorneys who bring 60 years of combined experience to every case
- Members of our team that are Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization
- Experience representing hundreds of individuals facing criminal charges
- A legal team that includes former prosecutors, a former magistrate judge, a former federal public defender, and a current law professor
Our Texas criminal defense lawyers understand that every criminal case presents different facts, and we take the time to carefully evaluate the evidence before developing a defense strategy. Reach out today to learn more and secure your confidential case evaluation.
Overview of False Police Reports in Texas
Texas law does not prohibit only written police reports. Under Texas Penal Code § 37.08, a person may face criminal charges for intentionally making a false statement that is material to a criminal investigation when the statement is made to a peace officer, federal special investigator, corrections officer, jailer, or another law enforcement employee covered by the statute.
To obtain a conviction, prosecutors generally must prove that:
- The statement was intentionally false rather than an honest mistake
- The statement was material to the investigation
- The statement was made with the intent to mislead or deceive
- The statement was made to an individual covered by the statute
The law is intended to address deliberate attempts to interfere with criminal investigations rather than simple misunderstandings or mistakes.
What Are the Penalties for Filing False Police Reports in Texas?
Making a false report to law enforcement is generally charged as a Class B misdemeanor in Texas.
A conviction may result in:
- Up to 180 days in county jail
- A fine of up to $2,000
- A permanent criminal record
A criminal conviction may also affect employment opportunities, professional licensing, housing applications, and, depending on the circumstances, certain immigration matters.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested for Filing a False Police Report?
If you are arrested for filing a false police report, several legal defenses may apply depending on the facts surrounding your case.
Lack of Intent to Deceive
One of the essential elements prosecutors must prove is that the statement was intentionally false. If you believed your statement was accurate when you made it, that may affect whether the offense can be proven.
Statement Was Not Material
Only statements that are material to an investigation generally fall within the statute. If the statement could not have affected the investigation, prosecutors may have difficulty proving this element.
Insufficient or Unreliable Evidence
The prosecution has the burden of proof of every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. If the available evidence does not clearly establish intent or materiality, those issues may become part of the defense.
Every case depends on its own facts, and the available defenses should be evaluated based on the evidence involved. Our Texas false police report lawyers can assist by reviewing witness statements and investigative reports, examining whether evidence supports every element of an offense, evaluating constitutional rights, and identifying potential defenses.
What Should You Do If You’re Accused of Making a False Statement to Law Enforcement?
Being contacted by investigators or learning that you are under investigation can be stressful. The decisions you make early in the process may affect how your case develops.
If you are facing these allegations, it may be helpful to:
- Avoid making additional statements before understanding your legal rights
- Preserve emails, text messages, or other communications that may be relevant
- Keep copies of documents connected to the investigation
- Speak with a Texas criminal defense attorney before responding to additional questioning
Taking these steps may help protect your interests while the investigation continues.
Call for a Case Evaluation With a Texas False Police Report Defense Attorney Today
Being accused of making a false report to law enforcement should not be taken lightly. Even when the offense is charged as a misdemeanor, a conviction can have lasting consequences that extend beyond the courtroom.
Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers represents individuals throughout Texas who are facing criminal allegations involving false reports, theft offenses, assault charges, and other criminal matters. The firm’s attorneys bring more than 60 years of combined criminal defense experience, and both Pam Boggess and Cody Cofer are Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
If you are under investigation or have been charged with making a false report, speaking with a Texas false police report defense attorney can help you better understand the allegations, the evidence involved, and the legal options available as your case moves forward. Contact us at (682) 777-3336 or visit our convenient location:
We serve the surrounding areas of Tarrant County and Fort Worth, TX.
Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers
604 E 4th St Ste 101
Fort Worth, TX 76102
