Evidence is key to any criminal case. Police and prosecutors take evidence very seriously. If a person is accused of tampering with evidence—or otherwise interfering with an investigation—they could potentially be arrested and charged with a serious crime. Within this article, our Charleston criminal defense lawyer provides an overview of the potential charges that you could face if you tamper with evidence in South Carolina.
Tampering With Evidence Charge in South Carolina
In South Carolina, tampering with evidence is a serious criminal charge. Under South Carolina law (SC Code § 17-28-350), it is illegal to alter, destroy, conceal, or otherwise tamper with physical evidence that might be used in an official proceeding. To be guilty of this offense, a defendant must have altered/destroyed evidence with the intent to impair its integrity or availability. It is a serious criminal offense. A conviction can result in severe penalties. It is a misdemeanor criminal offense. A conviction can carry a maximum of one year in jail in South Carolina. If you are facing a tampering with evidence charge under SC Code § 17-28-350, a Charleston criminal defense lawyer can help.
Obstruction of Justice Charge in South Carolina
A tampering with evidence charge is not the more serious offense that a person could face for the crime of tampering with evidence. You could also potentially be arrested and charged with a much more serious obstruction of justice offense. Under South Carolina law (SC Code § 16-9-340), obstruction of justice is a criminal charge that applies to people who knowingly obstruct, impede, or interfere with law enforcement officers or other officials conducting investigations or carrying out their legal duties. Some examples include:
- Knowing lying to authorities;
- Destroying or concealing evidence;
- Physically preventing an officer from performing duties.
Obstruction of justice is a felony criminal offense in South Carolina. It can carry severe criminal penalties. However, the penalties for obstruction of justice can vary widely depending on the specific nature of the offense and other factors involved in the case. The maximum possible penalty for a felony obstruction of justice charge is ten years in state prison.
A Criminal Defense Lawyer Will Protect Your Rights and Your Interests
Facing any type of charge for tampering with evidence, especially a felony obstruction of justice charge—is a very serious matter. You need strong, experienced legal representation. Do not take on police and prosecutors alone. A top-tier Charleston, SC, criminal defense lawyer will review your case, answer questions, explain your options, and develop a comprehensive strategy to protect your rights and your interests.
Contact Our Charleston, SC, Criminal Defense Attorney Today
At Query Sauter & Associates, LLC, our Charleston criminal defense lawyers have the experience that you can rely on. If you or your loved one was arrested and charged with a crime for tampering with evidence, please give us a call now or contact us online for a completely confidential consultation. With an office in Charleston, we defend criminal charges throughout the region in South Carolina.