Tampering with Physical Evidence is a serious crime in El Paso County, and throughout Colorado. This felony charge comes with major ramifications. Because tampering with physical evidence includes altering or destroying items that might be used in a proceeding, the law acts swiftly. Just last week, there was a high profile case in Colorado where a woman pleaded guilty to tampering with physical evidence. The woman admitted to moving and impairing a missing person’s cell phone who is believed to be dead. Representation from an experienced defense lawyer is especially vital in situations like this.
Tampering with Physical Evidence | Definitions
Tampering with Physical Evidence – C.R.S. 18-6-610 includes altering, destroying, or removing evidence that may be used in an official proceeding:
- “destroying, mutilating, concealing, removing, or altering physical evidence with the intent to impair its verity or availability in an official proceeding; or”
- “making, presenting, or offering any false or altered physical evidence with the intent that it be used in an official proceeding.”
Altering evidence in any way is a dangerous act. Defendants might try to strengthen their case by covering up criminal activity. Additionally, defendants may also attempt to manufacture false evidence as a means of incriminating another person.
Tampering with Physical Evidence in El Paso County
Physical evidence itself has changed over the years as technology advances. While articles, objects, records, and documents are still valid, the following list of electronic-based evidence is found more often:
- electronic records
- audio recordings
- video
- emails
- text messages
- social media posts / interactions
- image files
Because these items are more easily altered in our technology driven age, tampering with physical evidence charges can be just a few steps away. Contacting an experienced criminal defense attorney is essential if you’re in a situation that involves physical evidence.
Consequences for Tampering with Physical Evidence in Colorado Springs
In El Paso county, and throughout Colorado, tampering with physical evidence is a class 6 felony. Consequences can include between 12 and 18 months in the Colorado Department of Corrections. Additionally, conviction may include up to a $100,000 fine. There is also a mandatory parole time period of 1 year. Not as severe as the class 4 felony Tampering with a Witness, altered physical evidence situations require representation from an aggressive defense lawyer.
El Paso County Lawyer | Physical Evidence
It is essential that defendants in Tampering in Colorado proceed carefully. First, never talk with police or provide statements to investigators. They can attempt to sabotage what you say and use it against you in court. Second, exercise your right to remain silent. Finally, contact the best criminal defense attorneys in Colorado Springs at Sawyer Legal Group and we will start working on a strong defense on your behalf.
If you or someone you know is facing Tampering with Physical Evidence charges, be smart. Contact the top-rated defense attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group at 303-731-0719. Together, we can protect your future.
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