California Penal Code 653M
Have you or your child been charged with Telephone Harassment under California Penal Code Section 653M? Although intentions may have been innocent, repeated communications to a person with an intent to insult or annoy the recipient can result in a misdemeanor conviction on your criminal record. Penalties can be severe, resulting in time spent behind bars as well as costly fines. If you are facing charges for a PC 653m violation, contact our firm and we will provide you with a free consultation.
What is PC 653M?
Anyone who phones or sends a message electronically, and uses obscene language or threatens the receiving party could be found guilty of violating California Penal Code 653M.
The medium of communication can be a phone or anything that transfers signals. Examples of electronic devices include cell phones, videos, fax, computers, and more.
In order to prosecute for CPC 653M, the state will have the burden to prove that you are guilty of the following:
- communicating with someone by phone or another electronic device
- did so to insult, harass or annoy the other party
- did so on repeated occasions
The following could be considered a violation of penal code 653 m:
Ben is at home with a friend of his when they decide to do something new. Ben randomly dials a number on his home phone, reaches someone, and begins to shout obscenities into the phone. The person on the other end tries to reason with Ben and threatens to call the police if Ben does not stop. This makes Ben want to do it more. Ben and his friend do this three times on three separate days, after which the police show up to Ben’s house. Ben is written up and instructed to attend court on a certain date.
What are the Penalties for 653M PC Violations?
CPC 653M is a misdemeanor penal code offense punishable by:
- Up to 1 Year in the Orange County Jail and/or
- A fine of no more of $1,000
If you are facing charges for Penal Code 653M, we can help. MacGregor & Collins, LLP attorneys have been assisting California defendants for decades and can help you better understand the criminal offenses for which you have been charges. Call (844) 285-9559 or fill out our contact form to receive assistance from a skilled legal professional.