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Michigan Criminal Code: False Pretenses and False Representation

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False representation as blind, deafblind, hard of hearing, or person with disability

Published: 9 months ago

THE MICHIGAN PENAL CODE (EXCERPT) Act 328 of 1931

750.221 False representation as blind, deafblind, hard of hearing, or person with disability; violation as misdemeanor; penalty. Sec. 221.

A person shall not falsely represent himself or herself as blind, deaf, deafblind, or hard of hearing or as a person who has a disability for the purpose of obtaining money or anything of value. A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than 90 days or a fine of not more than $500.00, or both.

History: 1931, Act 328, Eff. Sept. 18, 1931 ;-- CL 1948, 750.221 ;-- Am. 2016, Act 132, Eff. Aug. 24, 2016 Former Law: See section 1 of Act 135 of 1917, being CL 1929, § 17102.

Misrepresentation as Disabled: Understanding Michigan's Law

In Michigan, it's illegal to falsely represent oneself as blind, deaf, deafblind, hard of hearing, or having a disability, particularly when this misrepresentation is made for financial gain. This law is clearly stated in Section 221 of Act 328 of 1931 in the Michigan Penal Code.

What Does the Law Prohibit?

The law explicitly forbids a person from falsely portraying themselves as having certain disabilities or sensory impairments. These include:

  • Being blind.
  • Being deaf.
  • Being deafblind.
  • Being hard of hearing.
  • Having any disability.

The key purpose of this law is to prevent fraud - it's especially targeted at individuals who might attempt to obtain money or anything of value through false representation of these conditions.

What Are the Penalties?

Violating this section of the Penal Code is deemed a misdemeanor in Michigan. If you're found guilty, the potential penalties include:

  • Imprisonment for not more than 90 days.
  • A fine of not more than $500.
  • Or, in some cases, both the above penalties may be imposed.

This law underscores the importance of honesty and integrity, particularly when it comes to claiming disabilities or impairments. Misrepresentation not only hurts the individuals who genuinely live with these conditions but is also considered a serious offence under Michigan law.

Please note that this article is purely informational and should not be substituted for professional legal advice. If you find yourself in a situation related to this law, please consult with a legal professional.

This should be used for informational and general purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice or relied on aside for general information that may contain opinion.

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