Computer Crime in Castle Rock and Douglas County is often charged after what is considered ‘hacking’ into someone else’s personal account. A college teacher has been charged with this crime after accessing numerous other teachers, administrators, and students’ email accounts. According to the report, a system update reset everyone’s password to the same temporary password. The teacher took advantage of that fact and used the password to access other’s accounts. When a co-worker found out what she did, it was reported to administration and then to the police. If this had occurred in Highlands Ranch or Parker, Computer Crime would be charged.

Douglas County Computer Crime Lawyer: Definition of Computer Crime

The Douglas County, Colorado law definition of Computer Crime as it relates to the case above – C.R.S. 18-5.5-102(1)(a) – is:

“

(1) A person commits computer crime if the person knowingly:

(a) Accesses a computer, computer network, or computer system or any part thereof without authorization; exceeds authorized access to a computer, computer network, or computer system or any part thereof; or uses a computer, computer network, or computer system or any part thereof without authorization or in excess of authorized access;”

With this subsection of the statute, it does not matter the intent behind the access. Simply accessing the email network under someone else’s account without permission is enough to charge this crime.

Sentence for Computer Crime in Highlands Ranch and Parker

In Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, and Parker, Computer Crime under subsection (a) is a class 2 misdemeanor. This level misdemeanor is punishable by 3 to 12 months in the Douglas County Jail and up to $1,000 in fines. In theory, she could be charged with multiple charges – one for each account she illegally accessed. This could make for a harsher sentence, as she could be sentenced on each count and if the sentences run consecutively (where one must be served before another starts) that time could really add up.

If you or someone you love has been charged with, accused of, or arrested for Computer Crime, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact the best criminal defense attorneys from the O’Malley Law Office at 303-265-1950 to schedule a free consultation in our Castle Rock or Denver office. Together, we can protect your future.

Image Source: Pixabay-StartupStockPhotos