In Oklahoma City, a man faces charges on threats by phone after becoming irate over his employment. The man, Devilion Jackson, became enraged when the temp agency he worked for suspended him over a workplace incident. During the phone call, Mr. Jackson threatened the agency and their employees. He later sent text messages saying he would “kill every worker at every branch” and planned on “blowing up both businesses” on the next day. These threats by phone, among other things, are pending felony charges.
Threats by Phone, Electronic Devices
Title 21 of the Oklahoma Statutes specifically addresses threats by phone and other communication devices. You can find this under §1172. It
states that making a communication over a type of telecommunication device is illegal if it:
- is a lewd, indecent, or lascivious request;
- intentionally meaning to terrify, threaten, or frighten a person or property of a person;
- makes someone afraid of bodily harm or even death;
- is anonymous and intending to annoy or harass the recipient; AND
- you allow someone else to use your phone, electronic device to do any of these actions.
Threats by phone, again, are not simply just through a “phone”. Other types of electronic devices—like ipads or apps—which allow you to communicate are also on the list. If you can send any type of message: text, photo, audio, then you can threaten someone through it. Thus, you can be liable for threats by phone from the device.
Legal Consequences
Threats by phone begin as misdemeanor crimes. However, they can quickly escalate to felonies. If you receive a felony threats by phone conviction you face up to a year in jail and fines. It is important to note that threats by phone generally couple with other crimes. This can be making bomb threats, assault, stalking, and harassment.
Read More About Threats by Phone Crimes.
If you receive a felony conviction, it remains on your permanent public record. This means that potential employers can see it if they perform background checks. It will greatly limit your ability to get a decent job. You will also lose rights to own a firearm.
Misdemeanor and Felony Crimes
If you are facing charges on threats by phone or other electronic device, call our offices. Our Tulsa County Attorneys can provide you the best possible defense in light of your circumstances. Free consultation.