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Photo Of Kyle B. Sawyer

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

Online Harassment Charges in Jefferson County | Cyberbullying and Cyberstalking

On Behalf of | Apr 17, 2020 | Harassment |

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Online harassment charges in Jefferson County, Colorado often involve hurtful, threatening, or obscene electronic communication. Statements or acts that are criminal offenses when done in person are sometimes equally unlawful when done online. At a time when smartphone and laptop use is at an all-time high, a few strongly worded emails or messages could lead to criminal charges. Any allegations of cyberbullying or cyberstalking require consulting an experienced online harassment attorney as soon as possible.

Jefferson County Online Harassment Law

Jefferson County’s online harassment law prohibits certain communication on electronic devices. C.R.S. 18-9-111 defines specific violations in Lakewood, Arvada, and Golden:

  • “a person commits harassment if, with intent to harass, annoy, or alarm another person, he or she:
  • directly or indirectly initiates communication with a person or directs language toward another person, anonymously or otherwise, by telephone, telephone network, data network, text message, instant message, computer, computer network, computer system, or other interactive electronic medium in a manner intended to harass or threaten bodily injury or property damage,
  • or makes any comment, request, suggestion, or proposal by telephone network, computer, computer network, computer system, or other interactive electronic medium that is obscene.”

An online harassment charge can apply to anyone using their smartphone, tablet, or computer for these purposes. Both adults and juveniles are responsible for what they post, comment, and message across many applications.

Is Online Harassment a Serious Charge in Colorado?

Online harassment is usually a class 3 misdemeanor in Jefferson County. Conviction can lead to:

  • up to 6 months in county jail,
  • fines of $50 – $750

Some defendants may be sentenced to probation depending on specific facts of their case. However, if the online harassment was because of another’s race, color, or religion, a class 1 misdemeanor applies. This can more than double the jail sentence and substantially increase the fine amount.

Colorado Online Harassment Defense Attorney

Harassment over the internet has ramifications that can negatively impact your future. This offense is especially specific, which can provide several defenses that might apply to your unique case. Perhaps the communication wasn’t threatening, obscene, or offensive or wasn’t due to someone’s race or color. Nevertheless, contact our office for a free initial consultation. Our attorneys offer reasonable fees and flexible payment plans for those facing online harassment charges throughout the front range.

If you or someone you know has been charged with online harassment in Colorado, be smart. Contact the strategic criminal lawyers at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-731-0719. Together, we can protect your future.

Photo by Rob Hampson on Unsplash