Burglary in Douglas County, Colorado is a serious offense that involves entering and remaining on another’s property with the intent to commit a crime. Burglary charges exist in three different degrees, depending on the type of property entered and the conduct after entry. A suspect was arrested in Colorado earlier this week on charges of burglary after he allegedly entered a building in the early morning hours and sexually assaulted a woman. Accusations and charges like these require skilled representation from an experienced burglary lawyer.
What is Second Degree Burglary in Colorado?
A burglary offense can include many different actions of entering premises unlawfully. C.R.S. 18-4-204, 18-4-203, and 18-4-202 define the specifics of burglary charges in Castle Rock, Parker, and Highlands Ranch. Someone commits this crime if they:
- knowingly enter or unlawfully remain on another’s property,
- with the intent to commit any crime (except trespass) while there
Burglary in the third degree involves breaking into equipment of some type, typically that holds money or other things of value like vaults, safes, and cash registers. Forcing your way into something like a locked gym locker can be considered third degree burglary. Burglary in the second degree includes entering a dwelling with the intent to commit a crime. Buildings such as residences, garages, businesses, and hotel rooms are part of this definition. Finally, committing burglary in the first degree refers to entering or remaining in a building or dwelling and assaulting someone or using / possessing a deadly weapon.
How Long Do You Go to Jail for Burglary in Douglas County?
The offense of burglary is taken seriously in Colorado’s counties, ranging from a class 5 felony up to a class 2 felony (when controlled substances are the target). Generally, possible periods of incarceration in the Colorado Department of Corrections are 1 – 12 years depending on the specifics of the case. The time behind bars can increase with the presence / use of a deadly weapon, serious bodily injury to another, or a location with lawful possession of controlled substances. Fines are also a potential ramification ranging from $1,000 to six figures.
Can You Get Probation for Burglary in Colorado?
The outcome of any burglary case depends on many different factors. Hiring a skilled burglary lawyer can significantly increase your chances of a favorable outcome. The strategic criminal defense attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group have decades of combined experience defending clients facing felonies throughout Colorado. Perhaps you didn’t know you were unlawfully on someone’s property or there was no intent to commit a crime. Nevertheless, contact our office to schedule a free consultation. We will offer particularly detailed analysis of your case and suggest next steps.
If you or someone you know is facing burglary charges in Colorado, be smart. Contact the unparalleled defense lawyers at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-265-1950. Together, we can protect your future.
Photo Credit: Pexels – Igor Starkov
