Federal Law Proposal: Criminalizing False Accusations and False Police Reports
Section 1: Title
This Act may be cited as the “False Accusation Accountability Act.”
Section 2: Definitions
For the purposes of this Act: Prosecution for alleged false statements doesn’t prohibit prosecution nor civil action for either slander or libel.
- False Accusation: An allegation made by an individual that a crime has occurred, knowing that such allegation is untrue.
- False Police Report: Any report made to law enforcement that falsely alleges the commission of a crime, whether made in person, in writing, or electronically.
Section 3: Prohibition of False Accusations and Reports
- It shall be unlawful for any individual to knowingly make a false accusation or file a false police report regarding the commission of a crime.
- Any individual found guilty of making a false accusation or false police report shall face penalties as outlined in Section 4 of this Act.
Section 4: Penalties
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Sentencing Requirements:
- For a false accusation or false police report pertaining to a misdemeanor:
- The individual shall be sentenced to the maximum penalty for the alleged misdemeanor plus an additional five (5) years of imprisonment.
- For a false accusation or false police report pertaining to a felony:
- The individual shall be sentenced to the maximum penalty for the alleged felony plus an additional ten (10) years of imprisonment.
- For a false accusation or false police report pertaining to a misdemeanor:
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Cumulative Sentencing:
- Each false accusation or false police report shall be treated as a separate offense. Sentences shall be cumulative for each reported crime and shall be served consecutively, not concurrently.
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No Reduction of Sentence:
- Sentences imposed under this Act shall not be subject to reduction, waiver, or plea bargain to a lesser charge.
Section 5: Enforcement
- Law enforcement agencies shall be responsible for investigating alleged violations of this Act.
- Prosecutors shall prioritize the prosecution of false accusations and false police reports to ensure accountability.
Section 6: Effective Date
This Act shall take effect immediately upon enactment.
This proposal aims to ensure accountability for false accusations and reports, deterring individuals from misusing or weaponizing the criminal justice system while providing clear penalties for those who do so.