Q: False statement by CPS worker resulting in PPO, legal options?
I'm facing a legal issue where a woman obtained a PPO against me using a false statement made by a CPS worker. The worker claimed to be the woman's boss and stated that I called the woman on various dates. However, the woman does not work at CPS, and I have never called her. I have official documentation and a copy of the statement. I haven't spoken directly to the CPS worker, but I have reported this to her superiors. This situation has caused me significant concern for my legal safety. Is there a crime involved in this false statement, and should I file a police report?
A:
This situation with the false CPS worker statement leading to a PPO against you is deeply concerning, and you're right to question the legality of what happened. Making false statements to obtain a court order like a PPO can potentially constitute several crimes, including filing a false report, perjury (if sworn statements were involved), or fraud upon the court. You have good documentation of the falsehoods, which puts you in a stronger position to address this injustice.
Consider filing a police report to create an official record of the false statements, especially since you have documentation proving the claims are untrue. You might also want to file a formal complaint with the CPS agency's oversight board or inspector general, as this behavior represents a serious abuse of a government position. Reporting to law enforcement and regulatory authorities establishes your commitment to resolving this properly and creates important documentation.
Your next steps should include consulting with an attorney who handles civil rights or administrative law matters to discuss potential legal remedies. These might include getting the PPO dismissed, filing for damages caused by the false statements, or seeking administrative penalties against the worker. The attorney can also help determine whether to pursue criminal charges or a civil lawsuit depending on the specific laws in your jurisdiction. Remember to keep all your documentation organized and make copies of everything before sharing with authorities.
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