Possession of False Identification – Fake ID Charges in Indiana
An arrest for possession or use of a false identification or “Fake ID” in Indiana can have serious consequences for a young person beyond the court proceedings. Convictions for crimes of dishonesty can have long-term consequences in the job market. A conviction for possession of a Fake ID can be particularly problematic for those seeking jobs in finance, education, or engineering. College students at Purdue, Indiana, and Ball State may also face a university disciplinary action following an arrest. When a person is charged with possessing a Fake ID, it’s important to contact an attorney with experience who understands how to develop a strategy to mitigate or attack the case. In some cases, it may be possible to avoid a conviction.
Use of a Fake ID to Obtain Alcohol by a Person Under Age 21
The most common use of a Fake ID is to purchase alcohol by a person under 21. This includes using the false identification to enter a bar, tavern or liquor store or to purchase alcohol at a grocery store. This fact scenario often results in the person being charged with both minor in possession of alcohol and a Fake ID charge. Excise police also conduct Fake ID stings in Lafayette, Bloomington, and Muncie targeting college students.
What level of criminal offense is Possession of a Fake ID?
Fake ID charges generally fall under three sections of the Indiana Code:
35-43-5-2.5. Counterfeit government issued identification. A person who knowingly or intentionally possesses, produces, or distributes a document not issued by a government entity that purports to be a government issued identification commits a Class A misdemeanor.
IC 7.1-5-7-3 Possession of false identity It is a Class C infraction for a minor to have in his possession false or fraudulent evidence of majority or identity with the intent to violate a provision of this title.
IC 7.1-5-7-1 False statements of age. It is a Class C misdemeanor for a minor to knowingly or intentionally make a false statement of the minor's age or to present or offer false or fraudulent evidence of majority or identity to a permittee for the purpose of ordering, purchasing, attempting to purchase, or otherwise procuring or attempting to procure an alcoholic beverage.
Regardless of what offense police cite or charge, it is the prosecutor who will make the decision on what actual formal charge is filed.
Attorneys for College Students: Fake ID Arrests at Purdue, IU, and Ball State
When a college student is arrested for possession or use of a false identification, he or she can expect notice of a disciplinary action from the university. This process usually begins with a one-on-one meeting where the student will be asked several questions about what happened and then face possible university sanctions.
Gibson Law Office attorneys have more than 20 years’ experience representing college students. When a student at Purdue, Indiana, or Ball State faces a disciplinary action on Fake ID charges, it is important to contact a lawyer who understands the university disciplinary process. If you need an attorney in Lafayette, Bloomington, or Muncie with experience representing students in the classroom and on campus, call Gibson Law Office for a free consultation.