Understanding California Penal Code 148.9: False Information to Police

In stressful encounters with police, some people panic and make a decision they later regret—lying to an officer about their name, date of birth, or identity. What may seem like a harmless attempt to avoid trouble can actually result in a separate criminal charge and an immediate Arrest. In Roseville, and throughout Placer County, California, giving false information to law enforcement is a crime under California Penal Code 148.9.

Cases under PC 148.9 are common during traffic stops, probation checks, and routine investigations. Even when the original reason for police contact is minor, providing false identifying information can escalate the situation quickly—sometimes resulting in jail time and the need for a Bailbond. If the Placer County Sheriff or local law enforcement believes false identity information was given intentionally, the charge can be filed on its own.

This blog explains what Penal Code 148.9 covers, how arrests for false information happen in Roseville, what penalties may apply, and how working with a Bail Bondsman and Bail House Bail Bonds can help someone secure release while their case moves through the Placer County court system.

This article is general information, not legal advice.

What Is California Penal Code 148.9?

California Penal Code 148.9 makes it illegal to willfully provide false identifying information to a peace officer during a lawful detention or arrest. The law is designed to prevent individuals from obstructing law enforcement by hiding their true identity—especially when identity affects warrants, criminal history, probation status, or booking procedures.

Under PC 148.9, false identifying information can include:

• Giving a fake name

• Providing an incorrect date of birth

• Using someone else’s identity

• Giving a false middle name or partial identity

• Providing any identifying information known to be untrue

The key word in the statute is “willfully.” That means prosecutors must believe the person knowingly and intentionally provided false information—not that they simply misspoke or made a genuine mistake.

Why Lying to an Officer Is Treated Seriously

Many people are surprised to learn that lying to an officer can be charged even when no other crime occurred. The reason PC 148.9 exists is simple: law enforcement relies on accurate identity information to do their job safely and lawfully.

False information can:

• Hide outstanding warrants

• Conceal probation or parole status

• Delay investigations

• Lead to mistaken releases or bookings

• Compromise officer safety

Because of this, officers in Roseville and Placer County are trained to treat identity deception as a serious issue—often resulting in immediate arrest once false information is discovered.

Common Situations That Lead to PC 148.9 Arrests in Roseville

PC 148.9 charges often arise from everyday encounters that escalate quickly. Common scenarios include:

Traffic stops

During a stop for speeding, expired registration, or another minor violation, a driver may give a false name or birthdate to avoid a ticket or arrest.

Probation or parole checks

People on supervision may lie to avoid detection of violations, which can result in additional charges.

Warrant concerns

Someone who suspects they have an outstanding warrant may provide false information to avoid being taken into custody.

Pedestrian stops or investigations

In areas of Roseville with increased patrols, officers may detain individuals for questioning. Providing false identity details during these encounters can trigger PC 148.9.

Booking process

Giving false identifying information at any point during a lawful detention—including booking—can still fall under the statute.

Once officers verify that the information is false, the situation often moves from questioning to Arrest immediately.

What the Prosecutor Must Prove Under Penal Code 148.9

To secure a conviction under PC 148.9, prosecutors generally must show:

1. A peace officer lawfully detained or arrested the person

2. The person provided identifying information

3. The information was false

4. The person knew the information was false

5. The information was given willfully

This means accidental errors, confusion, or misunderstandings may be defended differently than intentional deception.

Is PC 148.9 a Misdemeanor or Felony?

Penal Code 148.9 is generally charged as a misdemeanor.

However, “misdemeanor” does not mean “minor.” A conviction can still result in:

• County jail time

• Fines

• Probation

• A criminal record that appears in background checks

In some cases, PC 148.9 may be charged alongside other offenses, increasing overall exposure and complicating bail and release conditions.

What Happens After an Arrest in Placer County?

Once an Arrest occurs for giving false information, the process moves quickly:

1. Booking

The person is booked into a Placer County jail facility. This includes fingerprints, photographs, and identity verification—often where the false information is confirmed.

2. Bail is set or reviewed

Bail may be set according to schedule or reviewed by a judge. While PC 148.9 bail amounts are usually lower than violent offenses, delays can occur if identity must be verified.

3. Release or continued detention

If bail is posted, the person may be released with conditions. If not, they remain in custody until court.

4. Court proceedings

The case moves toward arraignment, where charges are read and future dates are scheduled.

How a Bailbond Helps After a PC 148.9 Arrest

When bail is set, families often choose between paying the full bail amount or using a Bailbond. For many, paying full bail is unrealistic—especially on short notice.

A Bail Bondsman can post the bond, allowing the defendant to be released while agreeing to appear at all court dates. This gives the accused the opportunity to:

• Return to work

• Meet with an attorney

• Gather documents and evidence

• Address underlying issues calmly

• Avoid unnecessary time in jail

In Roseville and across Placer County, families frequently rely on Bail House Bail Bond to guide them through this process efficiently and respectfully.

Mistakes to Avoid After Release

Once released on bail, compliance is critical. Common mistakes that can lead to re-arrest include:

• Missing court dates

• Providing additional false information

• Violating probation or release conditions

• Discussing the case on recorded calls or social media

• Assuming the charge “isn’t serious”

Failure to comply can result in a warrant, forfeited bail, and additional criminal charges.

Roseville and Placer County Enforcement Context

In Roseville, law enforcement interactions are frequent due to traffic volume, community policing efforts, and proximity to major corridors. Whether the responding agency is Roseville Police or the Placer County Sheriff, providing accurate information is essential.

Placer County courts treat false identity cases seriously because they affect court efficiency and public safety. Even first-time offenders may face firm prosecution depending on the circumstances.

PC 148.9 Giving False Information – FAQ

1. Is lying to an officer always illegal?

Not every incorrect statement is a crime. PC 148.9 applies when false identifying information is given willfully during a lawful detention or arrest.

2. Can I be arrested even if the original stop was minor?

Yes. Many PC 148.9 cases begin with small issues like traffic stops or pedestrian questioning.

3. Will this charge stay on my record?

A conviction can appear on background checks. An attorney can advise on long-term consequences and possible options.

4. How fast can someone get out after arrest?

Once bail is set, using a Bailbond through a Bail Bondsman is often the fastest way to secure release.

5. What should I do first if my loved one is arrested?

Confirm where they are being held, obtain the bail amount, avoid discussing details, and contact Bail House Bail Bonds to begin the release process.

What Makes Bail House Bail Bonds Stand Out in Roseville and Placer County

When someone is arrested, families don’t just need a bond—they need clarity, speed, and professionalism. Bail House Bail Bonds stands out compared to other agencies in the area because they focus on people, not pressure.

What sets them apart:

• Fast response times, including nights and weekends

• Clear explanations of the Bailbond process

• Respectful, judgment-free communication

• Local experience with Roseville and Placer County procedures

• Discretion, especially for sensitive cases involving identity or prior records

If you need a reliable Bail Bondsman after an arrest in Roseville, Bail House Bail Bonds helps families move forward quickly and responsibly.