Riot offenses such as inciting a riot or engaging in a riot can result when groups of people engage in what they think is a lawful protest. Police are often present when protests occur in Denver and will not hesitate to make an arrest should they see this unlawful behavior. Depending on the actions involved and the presence of a deadly weapon, misdemeanor or felony charges can result. Whether facing inciting riot, arming rioters, engaging in a riot, or disobedience of public safety orders under riot conditions, consulting a riot offense lawyer is an important element in protecting your future.
What Does Inciting a Riot Mean in Colorado?
C.R.S. 18-9-102 describes the conduct of inciting a riot in Denver and throughout Colorado. Someone commits this offense when they:
- incite or urge a group of 5 or more people,
- to participate in a riot, or
- give commands, instructions, or signals, to a group of 5 or more people in furtherance of a riot
It is important to note that a riot is defined as a public disturbance that includes 3 or more people creating a danger of damage to property, injury, or significantly impacting a government function. There can be somewhat of a blurred line between peaceful protest and riot, as some gatherings escalate rather quickly. Being in the wrong place at the wrong time or organizing a group for protest can lead to significant criminal charges if caution and awareness are not practiced.
What is the Punishment for Inciting a Riot in Denver?
Inciting riot in Colorado is a class 1 misdemeanor offense. Potential consequences of conviction can include 6 – 18 months in county jail and fines of up to $5,000. Additionally, if someone is injured or property is damaged due to inciting a riot, a class 5 felony applies. This can mean 1 – 3 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections and up to a six-figure fine. Simply engaging in a riot is also a criminal offense that can result in the penalties of time in county jail and substantial fines. It is easy to see how essential a riot offense lawyer is if facing these charges in Colorado.
Denver Riot Attorney | Expert Criminal Defense
Sometimes innocent people experience an arrest for rioting when they peacefully protested or didn’t participate in anything violent or destructive. There is a great deal to oversee when officers police certain gatherings and they might overcharge when they think they’ve seen rioting behaviors. If you or someone you know is arrested, it is essential to remain silent. Don’t give law enforcement statements of any kind. Instead, contact an expert criminal defense lawyer who can carefully analyze your unique situation while prioritizing the best possible outcome.
If you or someone you know is facing a charge related to rioting, be smart. Contact the highly rated defense attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group at 303-731-0719. Together, we can protect your future.
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