FYI: You Can Go to Jail for Sending Annoying Texts in Idaho

People suck.

Especially the ones who send you intentionally annoying and harassing texts.

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where an adult's unwanted texts cross the line? We have.

When those annoying messages escalated to bothersome, then frustrating, then hurtful, then manipulative, and finally abusive levels, what did we do about it? Nothing. It seems so obvious now, but before we looked into it, we didn't know there was anything we could do.

Send stupid texts, win stupid prizes...or a stint in Ada Co. Jail.

According to Section 18-6710, Chapter 67, Communications Security, of the Idaho State Legislature, there are severe penalties at stake for sending annoying, terrifying, threatening, intimidating, harassing, or offensive text messages to someone.

Every person who, with intent to annoy, terrify, threaten, intimidate, harass or offend, telephones another and (a) addresses to or about such person any obscene, lewd or profane language, or makes any request, suggestion or proposal which is obscene, lewd, lascivious or indecent; [...] or (c) by repeated anonymous or identified telephone calls whether or not conversation ensues, disturbs the peace or attempts to disturb the peace, quiet, or right of privacy of any person at the place where the telephone call or calls are received, is guilty of a misdemeanor...

If found guilty, the first-time offender earns a misdemeanor and a year-long stint in county jail. A second conviction escalates to a felony, and a sentence of up to five years in a state prison.

Why text something that could be used against you in court?

According to Psychcentral.com people send annoying and harassing texts out of a "desire to control, manipulate, and harm another person [...] stemming from psychological, emotional, or situational factors." Makes sense. In our case, unresolved conflict coupled with the offender's insecurities and their desire for revenge inspired their tyrade of nastygrams.

If you're dealing with disturbing texts, LawInfo.com can help you find an Idaho attorney who specializes in harassment.