Is it illegal to make prank calls in Ohio?

Question

Me and my BFF made some prank calls to random numbers in Los Angeles cuz we knew the LA area code. I'm scared it's illegal to make prank calls. We're both 12.

Answer 1

It is illegal and can be considered phone harasment but i can't remember the other name for it.  Usually if caught they will give community service, probation and a fine for first offense.  Even at 12 you can still be charged just as a minor.

Answer 2

Prank calls range from annoying hang-ups to false calls to emergency services or bomb threats. Prank calls that waste the time of emergency services are a criminal offense in most countries and is considered telephone harassment in the US.

In the United States, the Telecommunications Act of 1996 makes some prank calls a felony with penalties of up to two years in prison, and possible fines (depending on severity). However, such penalties are rarely carried out. As an example, the Chicago shock jock Erich "Mancow" Muller, after being criticized for the extensive use of prank calls on his radio show, broadcasted the sarcastic remark: "Reality check for you people: Chicago's the murder capital of America. The police don't care if you get a prank call."

Moreover, to make a prank call that falls afoul of the Telecommunications Act, 47 U.S.C. ,the call must be done without the intent to "annoy, abuse, threaten, or harass". Arguably then, if the intent of the call is to amuse, confuse, or simply to engage the call's recipient, there is no violation of the Telecommunications Act.

Answer 3

Find something better to do!!!