Obstruction charges in Denver can result from getting in the way of police or making their job more difficult. Becoming confrontational with law enforcement is especially risky and even a slip of the tongue can lead to a criminal charge. Interfering in any way with cops, firefighters, and EMTs while on the job isn’t tolerated in Colorado when they’re enforcing the law or preserving peace. Securing a skilled obstruction attorney is crucial if facing charges of obstructing a peace officer in the state of Colorado.
Denver Obstructing a Peace Officer Law
Denver’s obstructing a peace officer law prohibits specific behaviors against law enforcement and emergency responders in the line of duty. C.R.S. 18-8-104 addresses the specific violations of obstructing police in Colorado. Someone commits this crime in Denver, Lodo, or Stapleton if they:
- knowingly obstruct, impair, or hinder,
- a peace officer, firefighter, emergency medical services provider, rescue specialist, or volunteer,
- from enforcing the law, preserving the peace, extinguishing a fire, or applying medical treatment,
- by using or threatening to use force, violence, or physical interference
This clearly includes a great deal of different behaviors that could be considered unlawful. Crossing police tape, making verbal threats at officers, or refusing to leave if asked during a peaceful protest are all examples of obstructing police in Colorado. Additionally, police animals are also protected under this law and these behaviors against them can lead to charges as well.
Is Obstructing Police a Misdemeanor in Colorado?
Obstructing a peace officer is a class 2 misdemeanor throughout Colorado. A conviction can result in:
- up to 1 year in county jail,
- fines of $250 to $1,000
Resisting arrest is a closely related offense to obstructing police but often involves the individual being arrested interfering with law enforcement. Additionally, when interactions with police become physical a person can face second degree assault on a police officer if the cop experiences pain of some sort.
Denver Criminal Defense for Police-Involved Crimes
Any charge stemming from an altercation with police requires defendants to proceed carefully. When law enforcement is the alleged victim in a case, the stakes are higher. Perhaps you were acting in self-defense or defense of another, police were using excessive force, or there was other misconduct. That said, contact our office for an important free consultation. We will thoroughly analyze what happened and recommend next steps. We offer same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans for people facing obstruction allegations throughout Colorado.
If you or someone you know has been charged with obstructing a peace officer, be smart. Contact the highly rated defense attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-731-0719. Together, we can protect your future.
Photo by Sunyu Kim