Tampering with Evidence: Physical Evidence or Witnesses
Individuals can find themselves charged with tampering with evidence in an attempt to “cover up” a crime, whether through deleting computer files or asking witnesses to lie about the facts.
Both tampering with physical evidence and tampering with witnesses are class 6 felonies. First time offenders can face up to two years of incarceration.
Tampering with Physical Evidence
Tampering with physical evidence is detailed in A.R.S. 13-2809, and covers both tampering with the intent to use the evidence in court proceedings, as well as tampering intended to prevent its use in court proceedings. More specifically:
- Destroying, mutilating, altering, concealing, or removing physical evidence with the intent to impair its verity or availability.
- Knowingly making, producing, or offering false physical evidence.
- Preventing the production of physical evidence by an act of force, intimidation, or deception against any person.
Tampering with a Witness
Tampering with a witness is detailed in A.R.S. 13-2804. A violation is committed if a person knowingly communicates, whether directly or indirectly, with a witness of an official proceeding, or someone they believe may be called as a witness, to do any of the following:
- To ask the witness to withhold any testimony.
- To ask the witness to testify falsely.
- To ask the witness to be absent from a legal proceeding to which they have been summoned.
- To ask the witness to evade a summons or subpoena.
If you believe you or a loved one has been involved in a crime, call Rideout Law Group right away. Attempting to handle or alter the evidence in any way is a serious crime in and of itself. An experienced defense attorney will be able to build the best case possible for you while maintaining legal integrity and protecting your rights.
RIDEOUT LAW GROUP
With offices in Lake Havasu City and Scottsdale, our firm serves the entire state of Arizona, with a particular focus on criminal defense, family law, and juvenile cases.
Our goal is for the best outcome for your criminal case, which can include:
- charges that are reduced or dropped.
- top experts reviewing your case.
- aggressive negotiations with the prosecution for plea bargains.
- fines or probation in lieu of jail time.
At Rideout Law Group, our attorneys are able to expertly examine the evidence in your case to provide a strong strategy for argument that leads to an outcome that is most favorable to you. We have experience in all types of criminal cases for both adults and juveniles, with positive outcomes both in plea negotiations as well as jury trial settings.
Call us today for a free consultation at 480-584-3328.