​Resisting and Obstructing Law Enforcement

In Idaho, you can be charged with Resisting and Obstructing if you intentionally hinder a
public officer from doing their job or provide a false report to police.
The Legal Definition
Under Idaho Code § 18-705, the charge applies to anyone who "willfully resists, delays
or obstructs" an officer performing their official duties. This includes:
 Physical resistance during an arrest.
 Refusing to follow lawful commands.
 Interfering with an active investigation.
 Giving a peace officer a false report.
Understanding "Willfully"
According to Idaho Code § 18-101, "willfully" simply means you intended to do the
action (or failed to do an action) that caused the delay or obstruction.
 No Malice Required: You don't have to intend to break the law or hurt anyone.
 Simple Intent: You only need to have the purpose or willingness to commit the
act itself.