SOUTHERN BORN
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© 2023 by Thornton Criminal Defense, PLLC.
Atascosa Office:
216 N Bryant St
Pleasanton, Texas 78064
FORMER CHIEF PROSECUTOR
PERSONALIZED ATTENTION TO YOUR CASE
NO HOURLY RATES, ALWAYS A FLAT FEE
CLIENT CENTERED APPROACH TO YOUR CASE
BOARD CERTIFIED IN CRIMINAL LAW
OVER A DECADE OF EXPERIENCE IN CRIMINAL LAW
WHY HIRE THORNTON CRIMINAL DEFENSE?
Attorney Brad Thornton is a highly experienced and Board-Certified criminal defense lawyer. With his background as a former Chief Prosecutor, he has a unique understanding of the criminal justice system and is able to provide comprehensive and effective representation to his clients. He is also deeply committed to ensuring that all individuals receive fair treatment in court, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Brad Thornton is dedicated to helping his clients achieve the best possible outcome for their case, whether it is in San Antonio or elsewhere in South Texas. He recognizes the stress and anxiety that can come with being accused of a crime, and approaches his clients with compassion while keeping them informed at every step of the process. His knowledge and experience make him a strong advocate for his clients.
False Report to a Peace Officer
Texas Penal Code § 37.08 - FALSE STMNT TO PO/SP INV/LAW ENF EMPL/CORR OFF
False Report in San Antonio, Texas
In Texas, it is a crime to knowingly make a false statement that is material to a criminal investigation and make the statement to a peace officer or other law enforcement official conducting the investigation. This offense is a Class B misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
In the context of Texas Penal Code section 37.08, the term "material" refers to information that is relevant or significant to the criminal investigation. In order to be considered "material," the false statement must be something that could potentially affect the outcome of the investigation or the decision of the peace officer or law enforcement official conducting the investigation. Essentially, a material false statement is one that could potentially mislead or deceive the investigator and influence their actions.
Defenses in Texas
If a person is charged with the offense of false report to a peace officer in Texas, there are several potential defenses that they may be able to raise in order to challenge the charges. These defenses may include:
Lack of intent: In order to be convicted of this offense, the prosecution must be able to prove that the defendant made the false report to a peace officer with the intent to deceive. If the defendant did not act with this intent, they cannot be found guilty of the offense.
Insufficient evidence: The prosecution must be able to provide sufficient evidence to support a conviction for false report to a peace officer. If the defendant can challenge the reliability or credibility of the prosecution's evidence, they may be able to successfully defend against the charges.
Duress: If the defendant made a false report to a peace officer because they were threatened or coerced by another person, they may be able to argue that they were acting under duress and therefore did not act with the necessary intent to deceive.
It is important to note that the specific defenses available in a given case will depend on the circumstances of the case and the laws of the state in which the offense was alleged to have been committed. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help a defendant evaluate the potential defenses available to them and develop a strategy for defending against false report to a peace officer charges.
Punishment Ranges
Level of Offense
Potential Incarceration
Potential Fine
First-degree Felony
Second-degree Felony
Third-degree Felony
State Jail Felony
Class A Misdemeanor
Class B Misdemeanor
2 - 10 years in prison
180 days - 2 years in jail
Up to 1 year in jail
Up to 180 days in jail
2 - 20 years in prison
5 - 99 years in prison
Up to $10,000
Up to $10,000
Up to $10,000
Up to $10,000
Up to $4,000
Up to $2,000
Attorney Brad Thornton
If you have been charged with false report to a peace officer in San Antonio, Texas, it is important to take the charges seriously and seek the assistance of a qualified criminal defense attorney. One attorney you may want to consider is Brad Thornton, who is a board-certified criminal defense attorney and a former chief prosecutor. Here are a few reasons why you should consider contacting Brad Thornton for a free consultation if you have been charged with this offense:
Experience: Brad Thornton has extensive experience in criminal law, both as a prosecutor and as a defense attorney. As a former chief prosecutor, he has a unique perspective on how the state builds its cases and is well-equipped to anticipate and counter the prosecution's arguments.
Knowledge of the law: As a board-certified criminal defense attorney, Brad Thornton has demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in criminal law. He is well-versed in the laws and procedures related to false report to a peace officer cases and can provide knowledgeable guidance and representation.
Personalized representation: When you work with Brad Thornton, you can expect personalized representation tailored to your specific needs and goals. He takes the time to understand the details of your case and works closely with you to develop a strategic defense plan.
Overall, if you have been charged with false report to a peace officer in San Antonio, Texas, it is important to act quickly and seek the assistance of a qualified criminal defense attorney. Brad Thornton's experience, knowledge of the law, and commitment to personalized representation make him a strong choice for those facing criminal charges.
FORMER PROSECUTOR
San Antonio Criminal Defense Attorney Brad Thornton has spent years in court rooms fighting for justice. As a prosecutor, Brad was a leader on cases ranging from marijuana to murder from arrest to appeal. Who better to fight for your rights than someone who knows the "other side" and has tried the toughest of cases out there. Put his experience and knowledge to work for you.
David I.
Seguin, Texas
Brad was great from the moment he looked at my case. Despite his busy schedule, he made himself easily available, walked us through every detail with care and professionalism, and worked out a great deal with the prosecutor that was much better than any outcome we could have imagined. I don’t plan on needing his assistance again, but if I’m ever unfortunate enough to find myself in another legal bind, Brad will be my first call.
Brian F.
San Antonio, Texas
I have had the opportunity to know Brad both personally and professionally for a while now. As a fellow attorney, I am consistently impressed by his passion and innovative approach to legal issues. He is exceptionally intelligent and is always willing to go above and beyond for his clients. When I refer clients to Brad, I have full confidence that they will receive top-quality representation.
Elaine B.
San Antonio, Texas
Brad is an amazing attorney, and I highly recommend him! He has deep knowledge and understanding how to navigate the law to support his clients. He has a way with people, and truly has his focus on client care and supporting them, during a time that’s usually stressful for clients. He was able to support in getting my case dismissed in less than 2 months and was attentive and personable during the whole process. You have a choice when deciding who’s going to represent you, and to have an attorney that genuinely cares for his clients should be an expectation anyone should set. Brad will meet that expectation 110%!
Kevin E.
Jourdanton, Texas
[Brad] made the process very easy for me, handling everything within a month, with a motion to dismiss all cases against me. I only had to attend court once! The portal he uses to make sure you are aware of everything going on in your case is awesome, I didn’t even have to worry everything got downloaded to the portal with email notifications. I would never use another attorney to represent me, he is the best at what he does.