COPS2060 - Law Office of W.F. ''Casey'' Ebsary Jr

COPS2000 Obstructing or Opposing an Officer with Violence Defense | Tampa Lawyer

Law Office of W.F. ''Casey'' Ebsary Jr — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 14:10:26 GMT

Charged with COPS2000: Obstructing or Opposing an Officer with Violence in Florida? Contact Us Today for Expert Legal Defense!

If you’ve been charged with COPS2000: Obstructing or Opposing an Officer with Violence, it’s important to consult a skilled criminal defense attorney immediately. COPS2000 is a felony offense under Florida Statute § 843.01 and can have severe legal consequences, including significant prison time. Our team at Law Office of W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr. is here to help you navigate your charges and fight for the best possible outcome.

What is COPS2000: Obstructing or Opposing an Officer with Violence?

COPS2000, under Florida Statute § 843.01, involves using force or violence to resist, oppose, or obstruct a law enforcement officer while they are performing their official duties. This charge is categorized as a third-degree felony.

Penalties for COPS2000: Obstructing or Opposing an Officer with Violence

A conviction for COPS2000 can result in severe penalties, including:

Up to 5 years in prison
Probation for up to 5 years
Fines up to $5,000
A permanent criminal record, which can severely affect your future

If you have been charged with this offense, contact a Tampa criminal defense lawyer at Law Office of W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr. immediately to start building your defense.

Defenses Against COPS2000 Charges

There are several defenses that could potentially reduce or dismiss COPS2000 charges, including:

Excessive Force: If the officer used excessive force, your actions might have been a reasonable response to protect yourself.
Mistaken Identity: If you were wrongly identified as the person obstructing or resisting, this could be a defense.
Lack of Intent: If you did not have the intent to obstruct or oppose the officer, this could be a key defense in court.

Each case is unique, and we’ll work with you to identify the most effective defense strategy. Law Office of W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr. offers free consultations to discuss the best approach for your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

FAQ

What is the difference between obstructing and opposing an officer with violence?

Obstructing an officer typically refers to hindering or delaying an officer from carrying out their duties without the use of force. This can include actions like failing to comply with commands or attempting to evade arrest. However, opposing an officer with violence involves the use of force or physical violence against an officer while they are performing their official duties. This charge is taken much more seriously, as it directly puts the officer at risk and is classified as a felony under Florida law.

Can I be charged with COPS2000 if I didn’t physically injure the officer?

Yes, you can still be charged with obstructing or opposing an officer with violence even if the officer wasn’t physically injured. The law focuses on the use of force, not necessarily whether the officer sustained an injury. Simply engaging in violent behavior, such as pushing, striking, or threatening an officer, can result in felony charges, regardless of whether the officer was physically harmed. It is the act of resisting or obstructing through violence that leads to a charge under Florida Statute § 843.01.

What should I do if I’ve been charged with COPS2000?

If you’ve been charged with COPS2000, it is crucial to take immediate action and consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney. A skilled lawyer will examine the circumstances surrounding your case, review any evidence, and determine the best strategy for defense. In many cases, charges can be reduced or dismissed, especially if there are issues with how the arrest was handled or if there is a lack of evidence to support the use of violence. Contacting a lawyer as soon as possible is essential to protect your rights and your future.

What defenses are available for COPS2000 charges?

There are several potential defenses against COPS2000 charges. One possible defense is challenging the intent behind your actions—arguing that you did not intend to obstruct or oppose the officer violently. Another defense could be if you were acting in self-defense, particularly if you believed the officer was using excessive force. Additionally, if the officer was acting outside the scope of their official duties or if you were wrongfully identified as the person obstructing or resisting, these could also serve as valid defenses in court. An experienced defense attorney will evaluate your case thoroughly to determine the best defense strategy.

Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation

If you’ve been charged with COPS2000: Obstructing or Opposing an Officer with Violence, it’s crucial to have experienced legal representation by your side. At Law Office of W.F. Casey Ebsary Jr., we understand the complexity of these charges and will fight to protect your rights and future.

Call us today at (813) 222-2220 or schedule a free consultation here to discuss your case and begin building your defense.

COPS2060 False Name to Law Enforcement Officer

Law Office of W.F. ''Casey'' Ebsary Jr — Sat, 26 Apr 2025 16:29:13 GMT

COPS2060 – False Name to Law Enforcement Officer in Tampa, Florida

COPS2060 Arrested for giving a false name in Tampa?
Call Attorney W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. at (813) 222-2220 today for immediate help.

COPS2060 – False Name to Law Enforcement Officer in Florida

Law Office of W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr.
Call Now: (813) 222-2220 | Contact Us Online

Arrested for Giving a False Name? We Can Help

If you have been charged with COPS2060 False Name to Law Enforcement Officer under Florida Statute 901.36(1), you are facing a first-degree misdemeanor with serious consequences. Many people are surprised at how quickly a simple mistake, panic, or misunderstanding during a police encounter can turn into a criminal charge.

At the Law Office of W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr., we have successfully defended clients charged with false name offenses in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and surrounding areas. Call (813) 222-2220 now to discuss your case confidentially.

What Is COPS2060 – False Name to Law Enforcement Officer?

The Florida crime code COPS2060 refers to False Name to Law Enforcement Officer, found under Florida Statute 901.36(1). This law makes it a crime for any person who has been arrested or lawfully detained by police to:

Give a false name, or
Otherwise falsely identify themselves to law enforcement or county jail personnel.

This charge most commonly arises during traffic stops, investigations, or arrests. Even providing a slightly incorrect name, birth date, or identification number can trigger a COPS2060 charge if police believe it was intentional.

COPS2060 Quick Facts

Form Code	Florida Statute	Offense Level	Degree	Description
COPS2060	901.36(1)	Misdemeanor	1st Degree	False Name to Law Enforcement Officer

Punishable by:
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Up to 12 months of probation
- Up to $1,000 fine
- Permanent criminal record

Source: Florida Statute 775.082 and 775.083

Florida Law on Giving a False Name

Florida Statute § 901.36 states:

“It is unlawful for a person who has been arrested or lawfully detained by a law enforcement officer to give a false name, or otherwise falsely identify himself or herself in any way, to the law enforcement officer or any county jail personnel.”

This law is part of Title XLVII – Criminal Procedure and Corrections, Chapter 901 – Arrests.
A violation of this law, except where it causes actual harm (like obstructing an investigation), is charged as a first-degree misdemeanor.

Frequently Asked Questions About COPS2060

FAQ

What if I accidentally gave wrong information?

If you accidentally gave the wrong name or information without intending to mislead law enforcement, that may be a valid defense. Florida law requires that the false identification be intentional. Honest mistakes, confusion, or misunderstandings can often be used to fight the charge. An experienced defense attorney can help present this to the court.

Can I be charged if I wasn’t arrested, only detained?

Yes, you can be charged even if you were only lawfully detained and not formally arrested. Florida Statute 901.36(1) makes it illegal to give false information during both arrest and detention. Routine traffic stops or investigative stops are examples where detention occurs. It’s important to understand that lying in these situations can still lead to criminal charges.

What are the penalties for a conviction?

A conviction for giving a false name to law enforcement is a first-degree misdemeanor in Florida. It carries penalties of up to one year in jail, one year of probation, and a $1,000 fine. A conviction also creates a permanent criminal record. That can impact your future employment, housing, and education opportunities.

Are there defenses to a COPS2060 charge?

Yes, there are several defenses to a COPS2060 charge depending on the facts of your case. Common defenses include lack of intent, illegal detention or arrest, and mistaken identity. Challenging the circumstances of the detention or the clarity of communication with the officer can also be effective. A skilled attorney can investigate and present these defenses on your behalf.

Why should I hire a criminal defense attorney?

Hiring an attorney gives you the best chance to protect your rights and possibly avoid a conviction. An experienced criminal lawyer can evaluate your case, find weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and negotiate for a dismissal or reduction. In some cases, alternative sentencing like pre-trial diversion may be available. Don’t risk facing jail or a permanent record without professional help.

Contact an Experienced Tampa Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been charged with COPS2060 False Name to Law Enforcement Officer in Hillsborough County, time is critical. Every case is different, and you need a strong legal advocate who understands the system and can fight for your best outcome.

📞 Call W.F. “Casey” Ebsary Jr. at (813) 222-2220 now for a free consultation, or
📨 Contact us online.

Don’t let a misunderstanding or panic during an encounter with law enforcement ruin your future. Get help today.

Posted in: COPS2060, False Name to Law Enforcement Officer, Criminal Defense, State Court
Tagged: 901.36(1), Hillsborough County, Tampa Defense Lawyer, Florida Criminal Law

What is COPS2060?

COPS2060 refers to a criminal charge under Florida Statute 901.36(1) — False Name to Law Enforcement Officer. In Florida, it is illegal for a person who has been arrested or lawfully detained to provide a false name or otherwise falsely identify themselves to a law enforcement officer or jail personnel.

This crime is charged as a first-degree misdemeanor and carries serious penalties, including jail time, probation, and fines. Hillsborough County prosecutors regularly file COPS2060 charges against individuals during traffic stops, investigations, or post-arrest booking.

If you are facing a COPS2060 charge, time is critical. Contact a Tampa criminal defense lawyer now at (813) 222-2220.

Florida Statute 901.36(1) – Overview

Under Florida Statute 901.36(1), the law states:

“It is unlawful for a person who has been arrested or lawfully detained by a law enforcement officer to give a false name, or otherwise falsely identify himself or herself in any way, to the law enforcement officer or any county jail personnel.”

Violations of this law are classified as first-degree misdemeanors. Sentences for COPS2060 charges are governed by Florida Statute § 775.082 (penalties) and Florida Statute § 775.083 (fines).

Key Details About COPS2060

Form Code	Florida Statute	Offense Level	Degree	Description
COPS2060	901.36(1)	Misdemeanor	1st Degree	False Name to Law Enforcement Officer

Penalties for COPS2060 in Florida

If convicted of False Name to Law Enforcement Officer under COPS2060, you could face:

Up to 1 year in county jail
Up to 12 months of probation
A fine of up to $1,000
A permanent criminal record

Besides criminal penalties, a conviction can cause long-term problems with background checks, employment, and immigration status.

Defenses to COPS2060 Charges

Several legal defenses may apply to a COPS2060 charge, including:

Lack of Intent: No willful attempt to deceive.
Mistaken Identity: Officer misunderstood or misrecorded information.
Unlawful Detention or Arrest: If the stop or arrest was illegal, the false identification might be irrelevant.
No Material Misrepresentation: The information given was not materially false or misleading.

An experienced defense attorney can challenge the evidence, question the legality of the detention, and negotiate for reduced charges or dismissal.

Common Questions About False Name to Law Enforcement Officer Charges

What if I accidentally gave wrong information?

Can I be charged if I wasn’t arrested, only detained?

What are the penalties for a conviction?

Are there defenses to a COPS2060 charge?

Why should I hire a criminal defense attorney?

Original Post from 2010

False Name to Law Enforcement Officer, 901.36.1, COPS2060

“unlawful for a person who has been arrested or lawfully detained by a law enforcement officer to give a false name, or otherwise falsely identify himself”

False Name to Law Enforcement Officer

If you have been charged with COPS2060 FALSE NAME TO LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER you can call a Defense Attorney in Tampa at (813) 222-2220.

Form Code: COPS2060
Florida Statute: 901.36.1
Level: Misd (Misdemeanor)
Degree: 1st
Description: FALSE NAME TO LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

COPS2060 FALSE NAME TO LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER one of the most commonly charged offenses in Hillsborough County, Florida.

Title XLVII CRIMINAL PROCEDURE AND CORRECTIONS

Chapter 901 ARRESTS

901.36 Prohibition against giving false name or false identification by person arrested or lawfully detained; penalties; court orders.

(1) It is unlawful for a person who has been arrested or lawfully detained by a law enforcement officer to give a false name, or otherwise falsely identify himself or herself in any way, to the law enforcement officer or any county jail personnel. Except as provided in subsection (2), any person who violates this subsection commits a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.