California · Penal Code

PEN §[185.]: Section One Hundred and Eighty-five.

Misdemeanor

What this law says, in plain English

It is unlawful to wear a mask, false whiskers, or disguise to avoid identification while committing a crime or to escape after being arrested or convicted. Violation is a misdemeanor.

Read the full statutory text
Section One Hundred and Eighty-five. It shall be unlawful for any person to wear any mask, false whiskers, or any personal disguise (whether complete or partial) for the purpose of: One—Evading or escaping discovery, recognition, or identification in the commission of any public offense. Two—Concealment, flight, or escape, when charged with, arrested for, or convicted of, any public offense. Any person violating any of the provisions of this section shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor.

Verify at the official source: California legislative text

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This page is legal information, not legal advice. Code text is sourced from official publications and may lag amendments — always confirm at the official source linked above. Plain-English summaries and relationship data are AI-derived and reviewed on an ongoing basis; verify with a licensed attorney before acting.