Illegally discharging firearms in Weld County, Colorado can come with steep penalties. Whether a person is accused of firing a gun into someone’s home, a building, or another’s car, the need for a skilled defense attorney by their side couldn’t be higher. There are specific elements to this firearm crime that make a big difference when it comes to the outcome of the case. We recommend that anyone facing allegations like this in Weld County contact an experienced Greeley criminal lawyer right away. Below we discuss illegal discharge of a firearm in more detail and ways we can fight for those facing charges.
Weld County Illegal Discharge of a Firearm Law
Weld County’s illegal discharge of a firearm law prohibits shooting a gun into specific places. CRS 18-12-107.5 is the criminal code that addresses illegally discharging firearms throughout Colorado. You commit this offense in Greeley, Windsor, or Fort Lupton if you:
- knowingly or recklessly fire a gun,
- into a dwelling, building, or occupied structure / vehicle
Prosecutors in these cases will try to prove the defendant either knew or disregarded the risk that firing a gun aimed at one of these structures would hit the object itself. Many situations can lead to this charge including drive-by shootings, firing a weapon thinking it isn’t loaded, or even accidentally shooting a gun while cleaning it.
How Serious is Illegally Discharging Firearms in Weld County?
Each firearm case in Colorado is unique. Penalties won’t always look the same. Illegal discharge of a firearm is a class 5 felony in Weld, Larimer, and Boulder County. A conviction can lead to:
- a prison sentence of 1 – 3 years,
- fines of $1K – $100K,
- 2 years of parole
A felony on your record has other ramifications as well. Many encounter difficulties passing background checks, finding employment, and even securing adequate housing.
Greeley Firearm Crimes Attorney
It is essential that defendants in Weld and Larimer County exercise their right to remain silent when contacted by police about unlawful behavior with a firearm. We have daces of combined experience representing clients throughout Colorado’s front range and our results speak for themselves. Perhaps you didn’t know the gun was loaded, you fired in self-defense, or you didn’t fire knowingly or recklessly. Nevertheless, contact our office for a free, confidential consultation. We will carefully evaluate your situation, as well as suggest what to do next. Our affordable fees, flexible payment plans, and same-day jail visits make strategic representation a reality for those accused.
Don’t talk to police about illegally discharging firearms – talk to us. 303-731-0719
Photo by Timothy Dykes