New Mexico, like many other states, has strict laws regarding the use and creation of fake identification. The manufacturing, distribution, sale, and possession of forged identification documents are all considered illegal activities that can result in severe punishments. In this article, we will examine the various charges that one may face when caught with a fake ID, their consequences, and the best ways to avoid facing legal repercussions.

What is a Scannable Fake ID?

A scannable fake ID is a forged identification document that can be used to bypass legal age restrictions or access restricted areas such as airports, governmental buildings, or military bases. Unlike traditional fake IDs that only have manipulated visual clues, scannable fake IDs have encoded magnetic strips or barcodes that mimic the data of a legitimate ID. The data on a scannable fake ID is obtained from a real identification document and then reproduced on the forged one, having a similar appearance to an authentic ID card. Therefore, these types of fake IDs are difficult to distinguish from real ones since they look and scan the same.

New Mexico Scannable Fake ID Laws and Charges

As previously mentioned, New Mexico has strict laws prohibiting the use, production, sale, and possession of fake identification documents. The following are some of the charges that one may face if found with a scannable fake ID:

1. Possession of a Scannable Fake ID

The mere possession of a scannable fake ID is considered a crime in New Mexico. According to the New Mexico Criminal Code Section 30-37-4, it is illegal to possess or use a falsified identification document, knowing that the information on the document is false or fictitious, and with the intent to commit fraud or deceive another person. Possession of a forged ID in New Mexico is a misdemeanor offense that carries a potential jail sentence of up to one year and fines up to $1,000.

2. Manufacturing or Distributing Scannable Fake IDs

The manufacturing and distribution of scannable fake IDs are more severe offenses than possession alone, and therefore carry more extensive penalties. In New Mexico, it is illegal to produce, distribute, sell, or aid in the creation of any falsified identification document. The charges will depend on the severity of the crime. For instance:

– The creation or sale of one to five fake IDs is a misdemeanor punishable by a maximum penalty of one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
– The production or sale of six or more scannable fake IDs is a fourth-degree felony. Penalties for this type of offense range from eighteen months up to three years in prison and a fine of $5,000.

3. Using a Scannable Fake ID

Using a fake identification document in New Mexico to get into a private club, purchase alcohol, or enter a restricted area can result in significant legal consequences. Attempting to deceive another person or government agency through the use of a scannable fake ID is a misdemeanor offense that carries up to a year in prison and fines of $1,000. The consequences will undoubtedly increase if a crime is committed while using a forged identification document.

Defense Against Scannable Fake ID Charges in New Mexico

Given the severe nature of the legal consequences associated with scannable fake ID charges, individuals are recommended to seek legal representation immediately if faced with such offenses.

The following are some of the defenses that may be used in New Mexico against scannable fake ID charges:

Lack of Knowledge: If a person was entirely unaware that they were in possession of a forged identification document or the ID was given to them without their knowledge, they may be able to prove their innocence.

Mistaken Identity: In some cases, individuals may have been mistaken for somebody else who was using a fake ID, or the identification document in question was not their own.

Lack of Intent: Another defense strategy may be to argue that the individual had no intent to deceive others or commit any illegal activities. For example, a person may have mistakenly used a fake ID to enter a restricted area without any criminal intent.

Conclusion

New Mexico scannable fake ID charges can have lasting impacts on an individual’s life, such as affecting academic or career opportunities. The best way to avoid facing such legal consequences is to steer clear of any fake ID activities entirely. However, if charged, it is always recommended to seek legal representation immediately and understand the severity of the charges before building the defense strategy. As a general rule of thumb, it’s critical to never use or possess fake identification documents, as the risks outweigh the benefits.