Burglary is an offense in Douglas County that involves entering or remaining on another’s property with the intent to commit a crime. It is charged in three different degrees, depending on the type of property and danger to those inside. Earlier this month, a Colorado man was arrested after allegedly entering an open house hosted by a real estate agent and demanding some of her possessions at knife-point. The suspect faces charges of first-degree burglary, aggravated robbery, and second-degree assault. Serious accusations such as these require representation from a seasoned burglary attorney.
Is Burglary a Felony in Douglas County?
Each degree of burglary is a felony offense in Parker, Highlands Ranch, and Castle Rock. C.R.S. 18-4-202, 18-4-203, and 18-4-204 address the conduct of burglary in Colorado. A person commits this crime when they:
- knowingly enter or unlawfully remain on another’s property,
- with the intent to commit any crime (except for Trespass) while on or inside the property
The most serious burglaries typically involve unlawful entry into residences or businesses. These are often carried out while being armed with some type of weapon and with the intent to steal valuables, much like the scenario above. Lesser burglary crimes sometimes occur when an ex attempts to retrieve belongings from a former partner’s residence or when an intoxicated person tries to steal something from a vending machine.
How Long Do You Go to Jail for Burglary in Douglas County?
Each burglary offense is unique and the sentence can vary. The three charges of burglary and their potential punishments are:
1. First-Degree Burglary C.R.S. 18-4-202
2. Second-Degree Burglary C.R.S. 18-4-203
3. Third-Degree Burglary C.R.S. 18-4-204
Conviction of burglary in Douglas County can result in years to decades in the Colorado Department of Corrections and up to six-figure fines. Factors that significantly impact a burglary sentence include the underlying crime committed and if a deadly weapon (crime of violence) was utilized in any way.
Lawyer for Burglary Charges in Douglas County
A charge of burglary in Castle Rock, Parker, or Lone Tree should be taken seriously. A wide range of penalties exist and time is of the essence. Contacting a highly skilled criminal defense attorney early on can have a significant impact on the outcome of the case. Perhaps you were lawfully on the property or you didn’t intend to commit a crime. Either way, it is essential that you exercise your right to remain silent if contacted by law enforcement and call Colorado’s best criminal defense lawyers at O’Malley and Sawyer, LLC. We have over 40 years combined experience defending clients with serious felony charges and our results speak for themselves.
If you or someone you know has been charged with burglary, be smart. Contact the strategic defense attorneys at O’Malley and Sawyer, LLC at 303-731-0719. Together, we can protect your future.
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