Introducing contraband is a felony offense in Colorado that occurs when someone brings prohibited items into some type of detention facility. Charges often result from a person mailing something suspicious, sneaking an item at a visit, and even throwing contraband over a perimeter fence. A Colorado corrections officer is due in court next week after allegedly bringing a burrito filled with different drugs into a state prison. A DOC investigator examined the employee’s lunchbox and located a plastic bag containing meth and heroin inside of a burrito. Any instances of prohibited items in a detention facility requires representation from a introducing contraband attorney.
What Does Introducing Contraband Mean in Colorado?
Bringing prohibited items into a detention facility (any place where people are lawfully held in custody) that could harm an inmate or security personnel is considered introducing contraband C.R.S. 18-8-203. These locations include buildings, structures, enclosures, vehicles, institutions, or worksites considered to be confinement. Contraband itself refers to goods, materials, and items that are prohibited such as:
· dangerous instruments (firearms, ammunition, knives, bludgeons, etc)
· alcohol
· marijuana
· controlled substances
How Much Time Can You Get for Introducing Contraband in a Colorado Facility?
The ramifications of an introducing contraband conviction depend on the items that were involved. Introducing contraband in the first degree applies to drugs, alcohol, and dangerous instruments. This is a class 4 felony that can result in 2 – 6 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections and fines of up to $500,000. Introducing contraband in the second degree includes more common items such as keys, money, drug paraphernalia, and obscene material. This is a class 6 felony in Colorado, punishable by 12 – 18 months in prison and fines of up to $100,000.
Colorado Defense Attorney for Offenses Relating to Custody
An offense such as introducing contraband can apply to visitors of those in custody, facility employees, and inmates as well. Anyone facing these accusations needs an experienced defense attorney on their side. Hiring a skilled lawyer early on can have a positive impact on the outcome of a case. Important evidence exists in all cases that require careful analysis from a strategic criminal defense professional. The attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC have over 40 years of combined experience defending clients throughout Colorado and our results truly speak for themselves. Contact our office to schedule a free consultation where we will hear your side of the story and suggest productive next steps. Don’t face accusations of introducing contraband on your own. Have an attorney on your side who can form a strong defense on your behalf and fight for you in court.
If you or someone you know is facing a introducing contraband charge, be smart. Contact the unparalleled defense attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-731-0719. Together, we can protect your future.
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