False Statements To Police
Crim. Law § 9-501 — a knowingly false report meant to start an investigation; up to 6 months or $500
Up to 6 months or $500. A person may not make, or cause to be made, a statement, report or complaint to a Maryland law enforcement officer that the person knows is false as a whole or in material part, with intent to deceive and to cause an investigation or other action. It is a misdemeanor carrying up to 6 months, a $500 fine, or both.
The offense has three parts: the person knew it was false, meant to deceive, and meant an investigation or other action to follow from it.
Sources for this section (1)
- Md. Code, Crim. Law § 9-501 — False statement to a law enforcement officer
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Maryland attorney.