Burglary charges in Douglas County can result from entering another’s property intending to commit a crime. The key elements of this offense in Castle Rock, Parker, and Highlands Ranch include the type of property and the degree of danger to those inside. There are a wide range of situations that can lead to charges of burglary, ranging from prying open a safe to steal money to breaking into a house or apartment. An accusation or charge of burglary requires contacting a skilled criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

Colorado’s Burglary Laws

There are three different degrees of Burglary in Douglas County. Third-degree burglary is the least severe and involves:

• with intent to commit a crime,
• someone enters or breaks into any vault, safe, cash register, coin vending machine, product dispenser, money depository, or safety deposit box

Breaking into a gym locker or display case can also result in 3rd degree burglary charges. Next, second-degree burglary includes behaviors involving:

• knowingly breaking into or unlawfully entering / remaining,
• in a building or occupied structure,
• intending to commit a crime against property or another person

This can include entering and stealing something from a restaurant, hotel room, someone’s garage, or a person’s house or apartment. Finally, the most severe burglary charge is first-degree burglary, which can include:

• unlawfully entering or remaining in a building or dwelling,
• AND assaulting or menacing someone,
• being armed with explosives,
• using a deadly weapon,
• or possessing and threatening the use of a deadly weapon

Additionally, 1st degree burglary charges can result when the intent was to steal controlled substances from a pharmacy or a location with lawful possession of such items.

Is Every Degree of Burglary a Felony in Colorado?

Burglary is often a felony offense in the state of Colorado, but can be a misdemeanor. Incarceration sentences for conviction can range from 6 months to several decades depending on several different elements of the crime(s). Fine amounts can reach six-figures. Penalties are usually more severe when a deadly weapon is threatened or used or the intent is to unlawfully obtain controlled substances.

Douglas County Lawyer for Burglary Charges

With a particularly wide range of ramifications possible, an allegation of burglary requires immediate action on the defendant’s part. Consulting an experienced criminal defense attorney early on has many benefits and can positively impact the eventual outcome. Perhaps you were lawfully on the property or you didn’t enter intending to commit a crime. Nonetheless, contact our office for a free initial consultation. We offer same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans for those facing accusations in Douglas County and throughout Colorado.

So, if you or someone you know is facing burglary charges in Colorado, be smart. Contact the strategic criminal defense lawyers at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-265-1950. Together, we can protect your future.

Photo by Pawel Czerwinski