Tampering in the Seceond Degree

Tampering in the second degree is generally charged as a class A misdemeanor although certain circumstances may result in class E or class D felony charges. A criminal offense that falls under property damage, the majority of crimes involve property such as automobiles, boats, motorcycles, airplanes, or public utilities. If you have been accused of this offense or are under investigation, it is to your advantage to consult with a skilled and experienced Kansas City criminal defense lawyer. At The O’Connor Law Firm we provide exceptional legal guidance to all clients, regardless of how minor or serious a crime may seem.What is Tampering in the Second Degree in Missouri?

While a less serious offense than first-degree, tampering in the second degree occurs when a person unlawfully rides in another individuals’ vehicle, tampers with a public utility meter in an effort to prevent proper measure, and similar conduct. You do not tamper with a public utility in a way that causes substantial interruption of service, or knowingly or intentionally damage or deface another individual’s vehicle which would be the case with tampering in the first degree..

Under Section 569.090 of the Missouri Revised Statutes you could face second-degree tampering charges if:

• ŸYou cause someone substantial inconvenience by tampering with his or her property;
• You ride unlawfully in someones boat, car, motorcycle, or airplane;
• You make a connection or tamper with a public utility, or;
• You tamper with a meter belonging to a water, gas, electric, or steam utility or cause any utility meter to be tampered with.

There are circumstances which may result in tampering in the second degree being charged as a class E or class D felony, described at Moga.mo.gov.

Penalties for Second-degree (2nd degree) Tampering

Those found guilty of tampering in the second degree face penalties that include a fine of up to $1,000 and/or a maximum of one year in jail. However, a criminal record will affect employment opportunities and other aspects of the defendant’s life.

Contact The O’Connor Law Firm Now

While tampering in the 2nd degree certainly isn’t the most serious criminal offense, a conviction can ruin your reputation and career. Every day innocent people are wrongly accused of committing crimes. If you are arrested for this offense, is a plea deal possible? Could the charge be dismissed? How will you attorney fight the criminal charges in court? We urge you to consult with an aggressive Kansas City criminal defense attorney in order to protect your legal guidance and reach the best possible result in your case. Contact The O’Connor Law Firm now for a free consultation at 1-816-567-MATT.