We often see cases where men and women get into arguments which turn physical. Typically, no one is using a weapon. Instead, they yell and throw things, push and shove, and grab and slap. Although emotions are high, no one is seeking to cause serious injury to the other. If a woman is pregnant in these situations, lawmakers in Jefferson, Adams and Larimer County have increased the sentencing and potential punishment for several crimes.
When a man or woman commits one of these crimes against a pregnant woman, knowing or when they should know she’s pregnant, then the accused may receive a greater than normal punishment. Not all crimes are affected by the pregnant victim’s special status. Listed below are the qualifying crimes in Denver, Douglas and Arapahoe County, where the judge can (or is required to) impose a more severe punishment.
For these felony offenses, if the judge sentences a defendant to incarceration, they “shall” sentence the defendant to a term of at least the midpoint, but not more than twice the maximum, of the presumptive range authorized for sentencing of the offense of which the defendant is convicted:
Assault in the first degree, 18-3-202
Assault in the second degree, 18-3-203
Vehicular Assault, 18-3-205
Murder in the second degree, 18-3-103
Manslaughter, 18-3-104
Criminally negligent homicide, 18-3-105
Vehicular homicide, 18-3-106
For this misdemeanor offense, there is a required minimum jail sentence of at least six months
Assault in the Third Degree, 18-3-204
Colorado’s legislature has made a policy decision that pregnant women deserve a special status when it comes to crimes involving violence of any kind. From the least serious of our violent crimes, Third Degree Assault, to Murder in the Second Degree, protection of pregnant women and their child matters.
If police or the sheriff want to speak to you about a crime involving a pregnant woman, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and call our experienced lawyers at 303-731-0719. Together, we can protect your future.