Violations against such protected trait or characteristic is a serious offense. If the prank call targets someone because of their racial identity, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender, it can amount to a hate crime. Often, the recipient of such prank calls may file for a restraining order, which means the offender cannot approach them again in any way, indefinitely. ![]() Harassment and stalking are misdemeanor offenses that may result in the offender doing jail time in county jail. Threatening someone, their family, or their property during a prank call can also lead to severe harassment charges. Other times, prank calling at inconvenient times like late at night or at work may also be considered harassment. Sometimes, just the sheer number of calls made to a single recipient can be grounds for harassment or stalking charges, regardless of the contents of the calls. This happens when you frequently make reckless calls to someone. Intentionally harassing, threatening, or stalking someone with prank calls is also illegal. ![]() The fines can range anywhere between $25 and $1,000, and there is a possibility of probation or jail time, depending on the severity of your offenses. If your prank calls amount to disorderly conduct, they are illegal and punished as a misdemeanor offense. Generally, in terms of prank calls, it means intentionally annoying someone with calls and the use of abusive and offensive language. Following are some general crimes, statutes, and situations used to judge and prosecute prank calls in the courts.ĭisorderly conduct includes a wide range of things that may differ from state to state. ![]() The simplest way to gauge the legality of a prank call is to know the limits and how they relate to federal and state laws. So… How Do You Gauge If a Prank Call Is Illegal or Not? Whereas, some prank calls are considered a crime in all states, like prank-calling 911, which may lead to serious fines and jail time. But if your prank call intentionally harasses or threatens someone, it is considered illegal. If your prank call has no malicious intent, lasting repercussions, and is harmless to the call recipient, it is not illegal. The key things that make a prank call illegal in any state are the intent and the aftermath of the call. So, prank calling can go either way and be illegal in some situations while completely non-consequential in others.Įach state has different rules, and the consequences and charges against a prank call may change depending on the state’s rules. The thing is that prank calls fall under a gray area of our legal system. The short answer is yes and no, depending on the circumstances of the call. Today, we will discuss exactly that to give you a better idea of the situation. Whether you are the prank caller or the recipient of a prank call, you may be questioning the legality of such a call. ![]() However, as with any practical joke, things can always go wrong and result in repercussions that lead to community service, fines, or even jail time. Such calls are a classic prank that can be incredibly fun when done correctly. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.Īlmost every teenager has made a prank call or been involved in one at some point.
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