How Much Jail Time for Running from Police?
Definition of Resisting Arrest or Evading Police
What is Resisting Arrest or Evading Police?
Resisting arrest or evading police, also known as fleeing from or obstructing a peace officer, is a serious crime that can result in harsh penalties, including significant jail time. This crime typically involves refusing to obey police commands, attempting to elude or flee from authorities, or physically resisting attempts to arrest or apprehend you.
Factors Influencing Jail Time
In determining the appropriate sentence for resisting arrest or evading police, courts consider a variety of factors, including:
• Criminal History: Prior convictions may increase the severity of your sentence.
• Grave Bodily Harm or Serious Injury: Inflicting harm on others while evading police can result in longer sentences.
• Felony or Misdemeanor Charge: Severity of the charge affects sentencing.
• Jurisdiction: Laws and penalties for resisting arrest or evading police vary by state.
• Intent and Threats: The degree to which you intended to commit the crime and made threatening remarks or gestures can influence sentence length.
Potential Punishments
The punishments for resisting arrest or evading police vary depending on the jurisdiction and the circumstances surrounding your arrest. Here are some potential penalties:
• Misdemeanor Punishments:
- Up to 90 days in jail: Class A or B misdemeanors
- Up to 1 year in jail: Class C or D misdemeanors
- Fines of $500 to $10,000: These include costs, fees, and penalties
• Felony Punishments: - 1 to 5 years in state prison: Class E felonies
- 2 to 15 years in state prison: Class D felonies
- 5 to 20 years in state prison: Class C felonies
- 1 to 25 years or life in state prison: Class B or A felony charges
- Fines of $2,500 to $1 million: These include costs, fees, and penalties
Table: Compare Penalties for Misdemeanor and Felony Charges
| Charge | Potential Jail Time | Fines | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Misdemeanor A/B | 90 days | $500-$10,000 | Violate law, but not grave |
| Misdemeanor C/D | 1 year | $500-$10,000 | Violate law, with more significance |
| Class E Felony | 1-5 years | $2,500-$5,000 | More severe violation |
| Class D Felony | 2-15 years | $2,500-$10,000 | Violations causing harm or injury |
| Class C Felony | 5-20 years | $2,500-$25,000 | Significant harm or injuries sustained |
| Class B/A Felony | 1-25 years or life | $5,000-$1 million | Most severe violations; intent to harm |
Consequences Beyond Jail Time
In addition to actual imprisonment, your resistancing arrest or evading police may result in other harsh consequences, including:
- Loss of civil liberties: You may lose rights to vote, own guns, or hold certain employment.
- Social impact: Your actions may reflect poorly on your family and community.
- Vandalism or damage repair: You may be forced to pay for property damaged during the incident.
- Legal fees and representation: You may face legal costs and expenses related to your defense.
Mitigating Factors and Self-Defense
If convicted, there are ways to argue your defense to lessen or mitigate your sentence:
• Self-defense: Claims of self-defense can minimize penalties.
• Lawful behavior: Demonstration of lawful behavior can count in your favor.
• No intent to flee or resist: Showing you lacked intent to flee or resist can reduce sentence severity.
• Good conduct credits: Good behavior during prison sentence can lead to sentence reduction.
Conclusion
Resisting arrest or evading police is a serious crime that can lead to significant jail time, fine, and other harsh penalties. Understanding the potential punishment for your actions and legal consequences can help you seek legal representation and fight against excessive charges. It’s crucial to recognize that ignoring or fleeing from law enforcement is never a solution; it only leads to escalation and potentially more severe sentences.
