False Imprisonment in Littleton, Greenwood Village, and Columbine is an act of confining or detaining someone without their permission or without the legal authority to do so. Barricading someone in a room, blocking a doorway to prevent exit, or tying a person somewhere are all examples of false imprisonment. While often a misdemeanor crime, charges can go higher based on the length of time a person is confined, if force or threats were used, or someone under 18 was the alleged victim. If you or someone you know is facing an accusation like this in south Denver, contacting an experienced false imprisonment lawyer is essential to your future.
Littleton False Imprisonment Law
Jefferson and Arapahoe County’s false imprisonment law prohibits locking or confining a person somewhere without permission. CRS 18-3-303 defines false imprisonment throughout Colorado. Law enforcement will pursue a charge if they believe you:
- knowingly confined or detained a person,
- without their consent,
- AND without proper legal authority
This can occur after difficult arguments or disagreements, or in situations where someone decides to punish another by keeping them somewhere. Cases that involve these acts against a current or former romantic partner often include a domestic violence enhancement. Furthermore, parents or guardians who falsely imprison a juvenile face heightened consequences.
How Bad is False Imprisonment in Denver?
False imprisonment is at minimum a class 2 misdemeanor in Englewood, Ken Caryl, and Bow Mar. A conviction can lead to:
- a county jail sentence of 3 – 12 months,
- fines of $250 – $1K
However, force or threats and 12+ hours of confinement elevate the charge to a class 5 felony. In these cases, defendants face:
- a prison sentence of 1 – 3 years,
- fines of $1K – $100K
False imprisonment can also be a class 5 felony if the victim was a minor under 18 and was locked or barricaded somewhere or confined by physical restraints.
Colorado False Imprisonment Lawyer
False imprisonment charges in Jefferson, Douglas, or Arapahoe County can come with impactful consequences. To protect your future and fight the charges against you, a skilled criminal defense attorney by your side is crucial. Sawyer Legal Group continues to be Denver’s leading criminal lawyers and we’re committed to obtaining the best possible outcome for our clients. Perhaps the alleged victim gave permission at some point, they were free to leave at any moment, or you’re being falsely accused. Nevertheless, contact our office today for a free, confidential consultation. We will carefully analyze your case, answer your questions, and recommend next steps. Our same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans make skilled representation a reality for the accused.
Don’t talk to police about false imprisonment allegations – talk to us. 303-830-0880
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