Washington criminal charge
Amber alert in Washington
Amber alert is a Class C Felony under Washington criminal law, defined by RCW 9A.76.177. As a Class C Felony, it is punishable within the statutory sentencing range Washington sets for that offense class. Washington sorts criminal offenses into class A, B, and C felonies, gross misdemeanors, and misdemeanors — a gross misdemeanor is a distinct, more serious rung than a misdemeanor — with maximum penalties set by RCW 9A.20.021.
Defined by RCW 9A.76.177.
What is the penalty for amber alert in Washington?
| Penalty | Range | Basis | Authority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jail / prison | up to 5 years (statutory maximum (RCW 9A.20.021(1)(c)); the sentence actually imposed is set by the Sentencing Reform Act standard range (RCW 9.94A.510) from the offense's seriousness level and the defendant's offender score) | discretionary | RCW 9A.20.021 |
| Fine | up to $10,000 (statutory maximum, adult offenders (RCW 9A.20.021(5)); unless a different maximum is specifically established by statute) | discretionary | RCW 9A.20.021 |
Applies to crimes committed on or after July 1, 1984.
Common questions about amber alert in Washington
Is amber alert a felony or a misdemeanor in Washington?
What are the penalties for amber alert in Washington?
As a Class C Felony, amber alert carries up to 5 years (no mandatory minimum) of incarceration and a fine of up to $10,000 (no mandatory minimum) under RCW 9A.20.021 (crimes committed on or after July 1, 1984).
Which Washington statute covers amber alert?
Amber alert is governed by RCW 9A.76.177 (Amber alert—Making a false or misleading statement to a public servant).
Legal terms used in this law
This reference is informational and is not legal advice. Penalty ranges are the statutory classification ranges; sentencing in a specific case depends on its facts and history.