Obstructing a peace officer can be charged in Aurora, Colorado when someone interferes in specific ways with police, firefighters, or EMTs. Even in situations where a person might feel police are acting illegally, trying to intervene can prove costly. While excessive force or self-defense can come into play in a situation, those are best argued by a defense attorney in court rather than in the moment itself. Defiance, offensive language, and any threatening remarks or behavior will often lead to a criminal charge, sometimes in addition to other charges involved in the incident. Contact Sawyer Legal Group today to speak with an Arapahoe County criminal defense attorney about your obstruction allegations.
What Does Obstructing a Peace Officer Mean in Arapahoe County?
Colorado law prohibits interfering with or hindering a peace officer while they perform their duties. CRS 18-8-104 defines acts of obstructing a peace officer in Aurora, Centennial, Littleton, and Englewood. Law enforcement will pursue this charge if they believe you:
- knowingly obstructed, impaired, or hindered,
- the enforcement of penal law or preservation of the peace,
- by using or threatening to use,
- violence, force, physical interference, or an obstacle
Many acts like crossing yellow police tape, giving police false info, and threatening to hurt them result in charges. Additionally, the same interference with a police animal is also unlawful.
Penalties for Obstructing a Peace Officer in Arapahoe County
Each case involving obstruction is different. Sentencing won’t always look the same. As a class 2 misdemeanor throughout Arapahoe, Adams, and Douglas County, a conviction can lead to:
- up to 4 months in county jail,
- fines of up to $750
Any offense where police are the victim(s) are carefully prosecuted and the need for an experienced defense attorney on your side is high. If the officer experienced any pain during the incident, the situation can escalate to 2nd degree assault.
Aurora’s Top Criminal Defense Attorney
When it comes to police involved crimes in Aurora, Englewood, and Centennial, Sawyer Legal Group is here to help those facing accusations. We are committed to obtaining the best possible outcome for each client and our reviews speak for themselves. Perhaps the officer wasn’t acting under color of their official authority, you were acting in self-defense, or there was police misconduct. Nevertheless, contact our office today for a free, confidential consultation. One of our strategic criminal lawyers will carefully analyze your case, answer your questions, and recommend important next steps in your case. Our affordable fees and flexible payment plans make skilled representation a reality for those facing allegations of obstructing police.
Don’t talk to police about obstruction charges – talk to us. 303-731-0719
Photo by Scott Rodgerson