Mississippi § 97-35-47 - False reporting of crime.
Full text of Mississippi Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 97-35-47 — False reporting of crime., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 97-35-47. False reporting of crime.
It shall be unlawful for any person to report a crime or any element of a crime, including an allegation of child abuse or neglect, to any law enforcement agency or officer, the Department of Child Protection Services, or any officer of any court, by any means, knowing that the report is false. A violation of this section shall be punishable by imprisonment in the county jail not to exceed one (1) year or by fine not to exceed Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00), or both. In addition to any fine and imprisonment, and upon proper showing made to the court, the defendant shall be ordered to pay as restitution to the law enforcement agency reimbursement for any reasonable costs directly related to the investigation of the falsely reported crime and the prosecution of any person convicted under this section. A report is false under this section when it is unsupported by any credible evidence and the person intentionally submitted the report knowing it was false.
Source: official Mississippi text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Mississippi § 97-35-47
What does Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 97-35-47 cover?
Section 97-35-47 ("False reporting of crime.") is part of the Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated, the codified statutory law of Mississippi. 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 Mississippi § 97-35-47?
A common citation format is "Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 97-35-47" (Mississippi). 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 Mississippi law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Mississippi official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Mississippi attorney.
How does Mississippi § 97-35-47 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Mississippi 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 Mississippi.