Photo Of Kyle B. Sawyer
Photo Of Kyle B. Sawyer

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

Identity Theft in Aurora | Use of Another’s Identifying Information

On Behalf of | Mar 1, 2021 | Identity Theft |

Identity theft in Aurora, Littleton, and Centennial can be charged if you’re accused of using another’s information to make a payment or purchase. This includes someone’s personal or financial identifying information, or their credit / debit card or checks. Using a family member’s credit card to buy items online isn’t identity theft as long as you have their permission to do so. However, the same acts without authorization or with the intent to defraud can be especially costly. If you or someone you know is facing identity theft charges in Aurora, Thornton, or Castle Rock, contact our skilled defense attorneys today.

Arapahoe County Identity Theft Law

Arapahoe County’s identity theft law prohibits specific acts taken with another’s personal / financial information. CRS 18-5-902 describes the specific elements of this offense throughout Colorado. You commit identity theft in Aurora, Englewood, or Littleton if you:

  • knowingly possess or use someone else’s personal identifying information, financial identifying information, or financial device without permission or lawful authority,
    • to obtain cash, credit, property, services, or something of value,
    • to make a payment for something,
    • to apply for or complete an application for a monetary device (credit / debit card) or credit extension,
    • or to obtain a document issued by the government

A great deal of info falls under the terms personal or identifying information. In addition to the obvious items like name, DOB, SSN, and credit card numbers, passwords, PINs, and ID numbers used without permission can apply to this crime as well.

Even when people find themselves in financially tough situations, using another’s personal or financial information for a quick fix can lead to impactful criminal charges. With so much of this sensitive information stored on smartphones, tablets, and computers, even purchasing items on another person’s device involves a certain level of risk.

How Serious is an Identity Theft Charge in Colorado?

While each identity theft case is different, this crime is a class 4 felony in Colorado. A conviction can lead to:

  • a prison sentence of 2 – 6 years,
  • fines of $2K – $500K,
  • 3 years of parole

Restitution amounts can balloon quickly in these situations and strap defendants financially beyond the above criminal penalties. Additionally, a prior ID theft conviction in any state can double the maximum prison sentence. Identity theft charges themselves are usually handled by the state attorney general rather than county DAs.

Aurora Defense Attorney for Identity Theft Charge

Identity theft is a complex allegation in Colorado, requiring the most skilled and strategic defense possible. We have decades of combined experience successfully navigating financial crime charges in and around Aurora, Denver, Fort Collins, and Lakewood. Time is of the essence in these cases and the earlier defendants secure determined representation, the better. Perhaps you didn’t knowingly use someone’s info, there wasn’t an intent to defraud, or the evidence against you is lacking in other ways.

Nevertheless, contact our office for a free, confidential consultation. We will carefully evaluate your unique situation, as well as suggest next steps. We offer same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans for defendants in and around Arapahoe County and throughout the Denver area.

Don’t talk to police about identity theft charges – talk to us. 303-830-0880

Photo by CardMapr