North Mississippi Man Indicted for Perjury in a Civil Trial
Some lawyers believe that every trial is about who is lying. I am not in that camp. I think that most witnesses believe what they are saying—even when it's wrong.
But I agree that someone lies in many trials. Usually, the worst thing that happens is that the deception causes their side to lose the case. So I was a little surprised when I heard that a North Mississippi man is being prosecuted in federal court for making false statements in a trial. But it's true.
Here is the indictment in U.S.A. v. Rock. The indictment alleges that Kenneth Rock Sr. knowingly made material false declarations during a federal civil trial in North Mississippi in September 2007. The testimony at issue related to prior criminal convictions, criminal charges and disability income.
The defendant could get up to five years in jail if convicted. Here is the penalties sheet.
Almost all lawyers stress to witnesses the importance of telling the truth in depositions and on the witness stand. A lying witness is a sure-fire way to blow up a case. But for the witness, it can also lead to criminal charges.
Civil perjury! And here I thought that was only an impeachable offense!
I am in the process of having a police officer indicted for perjury. The big thing is I am 100% certain his attorney knew of the false testimony and actually tried to keep it covered up. Search Steve Rievley on a Google search and follow along.