Photo Of Kyle B. Sawyer
Photo Of Kyle B. Sawyer

Charged With A Crime? It Doesn’t Mean You’re Guilty.

Charged with Theft in Denver? It May be Easier Than You Think, C.R.S. 18-4-401

On Behalf of | Jan 13, 2017 | Theft |

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Theft Definition for Courts in the Denver Metro Area
Theft has been a constant problem in every society as long as people have been around. In the Denver Metro area Theft, C.R.S. 18-4-401, is defined as knowingly obtaining, retaining, or exercising control over anything of value of another without authorization or by threat or deception; … A person can also be charged with Theft if that person “receives, loans money by pawn or pledge on, or disposes of anything of value or belonging to another that he or she knows or believes to have been stolen.” Notice the terms “knowingly” and “believes” in both parts of the definition. It is often difficult to understand what a person knows or believes when they do things. Police and prosecutors won’t spend much time trying to determine if a person thought they had a right to use property before making an arrest or filing Theft charges in Denver. Instead, they assume the worse and file charges. Ultimately, they let a jury or judge to determine their fate.  Read the formal definition of Theft.

Adams County Theft Values Determine the Level of Charges

Theft can be charged as a petty offense in Brighton Municipal Court if the value of the alleged stolen item was under fifty dollars, or it can be charged in the Adams County District Court as a class 2 felony if the value was one million dollars or more. The class of crime is set based on the total monetary value of the alleged stolen items. There is a detailed range of possible charges from the low level Municipal Court charges to the extremely high felony charges. Talk to your criminal defense attorney about what charges and prison sentence you might be facing.

False Allegations of Theft in Jefferson County and How a Person Can Mistakenly Become a Thief

Under paragraph 1(e) of the Theft statute, a person can be charged with Theft if they knowingly retain something of value for seventy-two hours after the agreed-upon time of return, in any lease or hire agreement. If circumstances arise which may prevent the return of property, or if someone simply forgets to return property, it is possible to be charged with Theft. However, being charged with Theft in Littleton, Colorado is different than being convicted of Theft. That is why it is so important for you to consult an experienced criminal defense attorney if you are ever charged with this crime.

If Police Charge You with Theft in Douglas County – What Should You Do?

If you are accused of Theft by a Douglas County deputy, or a Lone Tree police officer, you should respectfully refuse to make a statement. Theft is often charged when there is a simple misunderstanding between people. Making statements to law enforcement officers may be twisted and used against you in court. They are not looking for ways to help you out. We urge you to call the attorneys at O’Malley Law Office, P.C. and tell us your side of the story first. We understand the legal system and know how to get the best possible result in your criminal case. So, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and call us at 303-731-0719. Together we can protect your future.

Image Credit: FreeDigitalPhotos.net – Toa55