Public indecency is an offense in Denver that involves exposing intimate parts or genitals in specific ways. Most often, this charge follows if someone is caught having sex in public or shows their breasts or butt to satisfy sexual desire. However, public indecency can also apply if genitals are shown in order to alarm someone. A conviction can lead to county jail time and fines. If you’re being accused of public indecency in Denver, Cherry Creek, or Park Hill, hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney is best. Below we discuss public indecency in more detail and how we can help those facing allegations.
Denver Public Indecency Law
Denver’s public indecency law prohibits exposing intimate parts under certain circumstances. CRS 18-7-301 is the criminal code that defines these acts throughout Colorado. You commit public indecency in Denver, Montbello, or Lodo if, in public or somewhere likely to be seen, you:
- engage in an act of intercourse,
- expose an intimate body part intending to arouse or satisfy anyone’s sexual desire,
- excessively fondle or caress another person,
- or knowingly expose your genitals in a manner likely to cause affront or alarm
Having oral sex in your car parked outside or showing your breasts at a traffic light are a few behaviors that could result in a public indecency charge.
How Serious is Public Indecency in Denver?
Each public indecency case is different. Penalties for a conviction won’t always look the same. Without any prior convictions, public indecency is a class 1 petty offense. Ramifications can include:
- up to 6 months in county jail,
- fines of $500
However, if a defendant does have prior convictions for public indecency or a similar crime, the situation elevates to a class 1 misdemeanor. 18 months in county jail and up to $5,000 in fines apply in these scenarios. Furthermore, if a 2nd public indecency occurs within 5 years of the first, sex offender registration is required.
Denver’s Sex Crime Attorneys
Whether accused of public indecency or indecent exposure, impactful consequences can follow. However, just because you’ve been charged doesn’t mean you’re guilty. Exercise your right to remain silent and consult a strategic criminal lawyer.
We have decades of combined experience successfully navigating these charges throughout Colorado’s many courtrooms. Perhaps you didn’t intend to expose yourself, your intimate parts or genitals weren’t involved, or the location wasn’t one where others could see. That said, contact our office for a free, confidential consultation. We will carefully evaluate your unique case, answer your questions, and suggest next steps. Our affordable fees and flexible payment plans make skilled representation a reality in unsettling times.
Don’t talk to police about public indecency – talk to us. 303-731-0719
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio