Acts of destroying or altering evidence that could be used in an official proceeding can lead to substantial criminal charges. Whether the evidence itself could be used in an upcoming civil or criminal trial, attempts to conceal or damage the item(s) can be costly. Electronic devices and the information stored on them are prime examples of physical evidence that is often tampered with. If you or someone you know is being accused of tampering with evidence in Larimer, Boulder, or Weld County, contact Sawyer Legal Group right away to speak with a defense attorney.
Larimer County Tampering with Evidence Law
Larimer County’s tampering with physical evidence law prohibits many different acts surrounding items to be used in an official proceeding. CRS 18-8-610 defines the elements of this offense throughout Fort Collins, Boulder, and Greeley. Law enforcement will pursue charges if they believe you:
- destroyed, mutilated, concealed, removed, or altered,
- physical evidence,
- intending to impair its verity or availability,
- in a pending or prospective official proceeding
It is also unlawful to intentionally make, present, or offer false or altered physical evidence intending for it to be used in an official proceeding. Deleting emails, texts, direct messages, videos, images, and other files or purposefully damaging the smartphone or laptop they’re stored on can be considered tampering with physical evidence.
How Serious is Tampering with Evidence in Fort Collins?
Most offenses that involve interfering with civil or criminal proceedings in Colorado are felonies. Tampering with physical evidence is charged as a class 6 felony in Larimer, Boulder, and Weld County. A conviction could potentially lead to:
- a prison sentence of 12 – 18 months,
- a max fine of $100K,
- 1 year of parole
A felony on your record not only damages your reputation, but creates other hurdles as well. Difficulty securing loans, renting a place to live, and finding adequate employment are common.
Criminal Defense in Larimer County
Those accused of tampering with evidence in Fort Collins, Loveland, or Longmont should seek skilled representation as soon as possible. Securing a defense attorney early on has several benefits and often leads to a better outcome. Perhaps you’re not the one who destroyed the items, the damage was an accident, or there are other holes in the case against you. Nevertheless, contact our office for a free, confidential consultation. One of our tampering lawyers will carefully analyze your case, answer your questions, and recommend next steps. Our affordable fees and flexible payment plans make obtaining a determined criminal lawyer a reality for those accused throughout northern Colorado.
Don’t talk to the police about tampering with evidence – talk to us. 303-731-0719
Photo by Tim Samuel