Stalking in Weld County, Colorado is a crime that involves a credible threat and continuous behavior that results in another’s fear or emotional distress. Repeatedly contacting someone via text, direct message, or email or following someone from place to place can lead to serious criminal charges. A few years ago, a man was sentenced to 14+ years in prison for stalking four women in Colorado. Court documents state the man sent threatening emails and posted the victim’s faces and contact info on porn websites. Charges of this severity require immediate representation from a skilled stalking defense lawyer.
What is the Legal Definition of Stalking in Colorado?
C.R.S. 18-3-602 defines the crime of Stalking in Weld County and throughout the state of Colorado. A person commits this crime in Greeley, Keenesberg, or Windsor if they:
- make a credible threat against another person,
- and repeatedly approach, contact, or follow them, anyone in their immediate family, or their intimate partner
Another way stalking charges can come about includes circumstances where someone (or their immediate family or partner) is continually followed or contacted in a way that could cause serious emotional distress and the alleged victim claims they did in fact experience that distress.
Puzzlingly, professional treatment or counseling isn’t necessary to support a claim that the alleged victim suffered serious emotional distress. A simple statement can suffice.
Is it a Felony to Stalk Someone in Weld County?
Stalking is a felony offense in Colorado and conviction comes with significant penalties. A first offense of stalking in Greeley is a class 5 felony. Potential ramifications can include:
- 1-5 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections,
- up to $100,000 in fines.
However, stalking becomes a class 4 felony if it is a second or subsequent stalking offense within 7 years, is in violation of a protection order, or a violation of probation or parole. Consequences in these circumstances can be 2-10 years in prison, as well as fines of $2,000 – $500,000.
Weld County Stalking Defense Lawyer
Accusations or charges of stalking should be taken seriously and contacting a reputable criminal defense lawyer early on is crucial. Sawyer Legal Group has proven results, representing clients charged with felonies in Colorado for decades.
Perhaps the alleged victim didn’t experience serious emotional distress or you only contacted them one time. Nevertheless, contact our office for a free consultation where we will carefully analyze your unique situation and suggest next steps, all while prioritizing your best possible outcome.
Don’t talk to police about stalking accusations – talk to us. 303-731-0719
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