Stolen Valor: Understanding the Crime and Penalties in Nevada

Stolen Valor is a term used to describe the act of fraudulently posing as an active duty military service member or a veteran of the Armed Forces.

This is considered a dishonorable act, and many people wonder if it is a crime. The short answer is yes, stolen valor is a crime, and there are federal and state laws that prohibit this behavior.

The Stolen Valor Act of 2013 amended the federal criminal code to make it a crime for a person to fraudulently claim having received a valor award specified in the Act with the intention of obtaining money, property, or other tangible benefits by convincing another that he or she received the award. In addition to federal laws, many states have their own Stolen Valor laws, including Nevada.

If you are found guilty of Stolen Valor in Nevada, you may encounter severe legal ramifications. For instance, an individual was apprehended a few years back and received a 20-year prison sentence, among other charges.

If you or a loved one is facing charges for Stolen Valor, it is important to hire a criminal defense attorney. With their expertise, they can help you understand the specific laws in Nevada and build a strong defense for your case.

The Defenders has experienced criminal defense attorneys who can guide you through the legal process and protect your rights. Don’t wait, contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.

Stolen Valor Definition: What Does Stolen Valor Mean?

Stolen Valor is a term used to describe the act of fraudulently posing as an active duty military service member or a veteran of the Armed Forces. This can include falsely claiming to have received valor awards such as the Medal of Honor, Purple Heart, or other prestigious recognitions.

These false claims are made with the intention of obtaining money, property, or other tangible benefits by deceiving others into thinking the individual is a decorated military hero.

Is Stolen Valor a Crime?

Yes, stolen valor is considered a crime. It involves falsely claiming to have received military honors, medals, or other awards. This is done with the intent of obtaining money, property, or other benefits.

Stolen valor is both a federal and state crime in Nevada, with penalties that can include fines and imprisonment.

Federal Stolen Valor Act of 2013

The Stolen Valor Act of 2013 makes it a federal crime to fraudulently claim receiving certain valor awards with the intention of obtaining money, property, or other tangible benefits. The Act lists specific military awards that are protected under the law, including the Medal of Honor, Purple Heart, and Silver Star.

Nevada’s Stolen Valor Laws

In addition to the federal law, Nevada has its own laws prohibiting stolen valor. Under NRS Section 205.412, it is a crime to falsely represent oneself as a military service member or veteran with the intent of obtaining money, property, or other benefits. This includes falsely claiming to have received any military award, decoration, or commendation that one has not actually earned.

For example, pretending to have received a Purple Heart or a Medal of Honor in order to receive monetary donations or other benefits would constitute Stolen Valor under this law.

Consequences of Stolen Valor

Stolen Valor is a serious crime with severe consequences. If you are caught committing this crime, you will face legal penalties.

Federal Penalties for Stolen Valor

The penalties for Stolen Valor vary depending on the circumstances of the case. The Stolen Valor Act of 2013 stipulates that individuals convicted of this offense may be subject to a fine, a maximum imprisonment of one year, or both.

If you falsely represent yourself as having received any U.S. military decoration or medal, you could be imprisoned for up to six months, unless the decoration lied about is the Medal of Honor, in which case imprisonment could be up to one year.

Even if you are not prosecuted, a public accusation of Stolen Valor can cause lifelong reputation damage that can affect employment, rental, or economic opportunities for years to come.

Nevada Penalties for Stolen Valor

Under NRS Section 205.412, committing Stolen Valor in Nevada is considered a gross misdemeanor and can result in up to 364 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000.

Moreover, the social impact of false claims of military service or valor awards can be significant, not only for the individual but also for the genuine veterans who have truly earned these honors.

Defense Against Stolen Valor Charges

If you have been accused of stolen valor, it is important to understand the potential defenses that may be available to you.

Here are some of the most common defenses for stolen valor charges:

Lack of Intent

One of the most common defenses for stolen valor is lack of intent.

In order to be convicted of stolen valor, the prosecution must prove that you intentionally misrepresented your military service or awards. If you can show that you made an honest mistake or did not intend to deceive anyone, you may be able to avoid conviction.

First Amendment Protections

The First Amendment protects freedom of speech, which includes the right to make false statements.

However, this protection is not absolute. If your false statements are likely to cause harm, such as by defrauding someone, you may still be held liable.

Insufficient Evidence

The prosecution has the burden of proving your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is not enough evidence to support their case, you may be able to avoid conviction.

Mistaken Identity

If someone else falsely claimed to be you or used your name to obtain benefits, you may be able to use mistaken identity as a defense.

It is important to note that these defenses may not be applicable in all cases. The best way to determine your options is to consult with an experienced attorney who can review the specific details of your case and provide you with personalized legal advice.

If you are facing stolen valor charges in Nevada, our law firm can help.

Our team of experienced criminal defense attorneys has a proven track record of success in defending clients against a wide range of criminal charges, including stolen valor.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your legal options.

Facing Stolen Valor Charges? How The Defenders Law Firm Can Help in Nevada

If you have been accused of stolen valor in Nevada, it is important to seek legal support from an experienced attorney.

Our team of attorneys has extensive experience defending clients facing a range of various crimes. We understand the complexities of these cases and will work tirelessly to build a strong defense on your behalf.

Here are some of the ways we can help:

• Conduct a thorough investigation: We will investigate the allegations against you and gather evidence to build a strong defense.
• Develop a legal strategy: We will work with you to develop a legal strategy that is tailored to your specific case.
• Negotiate with prosecutors: We will negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf to try to get the charges reduced or dismissed.
• Represent you in court: If your case goes to trial, we will represent you in court and fight for your rights.
• Protect your rights: We will make sure that your rights are protected throughout the legal process.

If you are facing charges for stolen valor in Nevada, don’t hesitate to contact The Defenders for legal support.

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