§2292 Imparting or Conveying False Information

Summary

Making or causing others to spread false statements that someone is trying or will try to commit certain federal crimes is illegal. If a person knows the statement is false, the U.S. can sue and make them pay up to $5,000. If the person spreads the lie with intent, malice, or with reckless disregard for human safety, they can be criminally charged and face a fine or up to 5 years in jail. Where the case is filed follows the same rules as the crime the false report concerns, and a different, otherwise applicable rule does not apply.