A false imprisonment charge in Highlands Ranch, Colorado usually involves some type of detainment against someone’s will. To be a crime, it must be done without legal authority and without the person’s consent. We’ve seen cases where a false imprisonment charge results after simply restricting a person’s movement in some way. These actions elevate to kidnapping if the victim is moved from one location to another. Anyone facing a false imprisonment allegation in Douglas County should consult an experienced defense attorney right away.
Douglas County False Imprisonment Law
Douglas County’s false imprisonment law prohibits unlawful detention without consent. CRS 18-3-303 describes the specific violations throughout the state of Colorado. A person commits false imprisonment in Highlands Ranch, Parker, or Castle Rock if they:
- knowingly confine or detain someone,
- without that person’s permission,
- AND without legal authority
Examples of false imprisonment include many behaviors from blocking a person’s exit from a location to locking them in a room. If these behaviors occur between those who’ve been in an intimate relationship, a domestic violence enhancement often applies. Mandatory arrest policies and restrictive protection orders further complicate the situation.
When is False Imprisonment a Misdemeanor in Colorado?
Each false imprisonment case is different. Specific facts of the case can change whether it’s a misdemeanor or felony. False imprisonment that occurs for less than 12 hours and doesn’t involve threats or force is a class class 2 misdemeanor. Defendants in these cases face the following for conviction:
- 3 – 12 months in county jail,
- fines of up to $1,000
However, if threats, force, or detainment for 12 or more hours occur, a class 5 felony applies. A conviction here can lead to up to 3 years in prison, as well as $1,000 – $100,000 in fines.
Experienced Douglas County Lawyer
Experienced representation is key when facing accusations of false imprisonment in Douglas County. Our skilled criminal lawyers have decades of combined experience successfully representing clients facing these exact charges. Perhaps the other person was free to leave at any point, there weren’t any threats made, or the detainment was brief. Nevertheless, contact our office today for a free, confidential consultation. We will carefully analyze your unique case, as well as suggest next steps in your defense. Our competitive rates and flexible payment plans make strategic representation a reality in uncertain times.
So, if you or someone you know is facing a false imprisonment allegation in Douglas County, be smart. Contact the skilled criminal defense attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-265-1950. Don’t talk to the police – talk to us.
Photo by Lillian Grace
