Alabama § 13A-10-9 - False Reporting to Local, State, or Federal Law Enforcement Authorities.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 13A-10-9 — False Reporting to Local, State, or Federal Law Enforcement Authorities., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 13A-10-9. False Reporting to Local, State, or Federal Law Enforcement Authorities.
(a) A person commits the crime of false reporting to local, state, or federal law enforcement authorities if he or she knowingly makes a false report or causes the transmission of a false report to local, state, or federal law enforcement authorities of a crime or relating to a crime.
(b) False reporting to local, state, or federal law enforcement authorities is a Class A misdemeanor, unless the false report alleges imminent danger to a person or the public, where the penalty shall be a Class C felony.
(c) A person convicted of a violation of this section, where the false report results in an emergency response or investigation of the commission of false reporting, shall be ordered to pay restitution for the expenses incurred by any local, state, or federal law enforcement or assisting governmental agency. Expenses include any reasonable costs directly incurred, including the costs of police, firefighting, and emergency medical services, and the personnel costs of those persons who respond to the incident.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 13A-10-9
What does Code of Alabama § 13A-10-9 cover?
Section 13A-10-9 ("False Reporting to Local, State, or Federal Law Enforcement Authorities.") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alabama § 13A-10-9?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 13A-10-9" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alabama law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.
How does Alabama § 13A-10-9 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.