I did a quick internet search on Disorderly Conduct in Colorado and was shocked to see how many hits came up with people arrested for this crime. Denver Broncos, Colorado Rockies, several Colorado Buffaloes and C.S.U. Rams are on the list. And, they are not alone. Media trouble shooters, and ordinary everyday folks who could not keep their cool in ordinary life are also there.
As I read through some of the articles, I had to laugh because I know I am capable of making the same bad choices as the next guy. Fortunately, since I have been exposed to consequences my clients have to live with, I tend to live a more cautious life. I’ve seen what alcohol can do, and how it causes many people to do and say things they never would without it.
Disorderly Conduct, C.R.S. 18-9-106, can be charged in Douglas, Weld, or Jefferson County as a class 1 petty offense all the way up to a class 2 misdemeanor. The severity of what a person is charged with depends on the circumstances of the case.
Alcohol seems to be the leading common link in the cases I have handled and in the stories I have read concerning Disorderly Conduct. I also noticed that this crime is often charged along with other crimes such as Assault (C.R.S. 18-3-202), Menacing (C.R.S. 18-3-206), and in Road Rage incidences where Reckless Driving (C.R.S. 42-4-1401) is involved. It is also commonly filed in Domestic Violence cases.
I would like the public to understand how easy it is to get charged with Disorderly Conduct in Adams or Arapahoe County, especially if just enough alcohol is involved to reduce inhibitions. You can be charged with this crime by making a coarse utterance or gesture at someone. Ever done that? This crime can be charged in Weld County by making unreasonable noise in a public place. It is true – take a look at C.R.S. 18-9-106(1)(c). For the more daring, or drunk, displaying something that looks like a deadly weapon, or simply telling someone you have a deadly weapon, in order to scare them, is all it takes.
Many times good and innocent people are charged with Disorderly Conduct. There are always at least two sides to every story, and that is why you need an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. After all, the police and alleged victims have their lawyer. You need someone who knows the law and who will fight for you. If you are charged with Disorderly Conduct in Colorado, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and call us at 303-731-0719. Together we can protect your future.
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