In Washington State a misdemeanor Tampering with physical evidence offense can have a maximum sentence of 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine. If you are convicted of a misdemeanor you could be facing jail time and trouble securing employment in the future.
Often times Tampering with physical evidence charges are prosecuted in city courts with differing procedures and penalties. Although a misdemeanor charge may sounds relatively harmless, it can have a long-lasting impact on your ability to obtain housing, find employment and attend institutions of higher education. Additionally, crimes like Tampering with physical evidence create significant barriers to employment for many people.
For many people charged with Tampering with physical evidence this is the first time they have been on the wrong side of the law. Additionally, many are young and have a bright future ahead of them. Tampering with physical evidence is generally a crime that is associated with another crime or trial. The charges are very specific and vary greatly from case to case.
Washington State Law for Tampering with physical evidence:
RCW 9A.72.150
(1) A person is guilty of tampering with physical evidence if, having reason to believe that an official proceeding is pending or about to be instituted and acting without legal right or authority, he or she:
(a) Destroys, mutilates, conceals, removes, or alters physical evidence with intent to impair its appearance, character, or availability in such pending or prospective official proceeding; or
(b) Knowingly presents or offers any false physical evidence.
(2) "Physical evidence" as used in this section includes any article, object, document, record, or other thing of physical substance.
(3) Tampering with physical evidence is a gross misdemeanor.
