Invasion of Privacy for Sexual Gratification Charge

When someone takes intimate pictures or video of another person without their permission, an invasion of privacy for sexual gratification charge can result. Observing someone in a state of undress without their knowledge also applies to this offense. These acts often take place through windows or in dressing rooms, bathrooms, and locker rooms. Peeping tom behaviors where the victim has a reasonable expectation of privacy are punished harshly in Colorado, as the offense is an extraordinary risk crime. Allegations of invading another’s privacy for sexual gratification requires experienced representation from a skilled attorney.

Douglas County Invasion of Privacy Law

Douglas County’s invasion of privacy law prohibits certain acts of viewing or photographing others without their knowledge. CRS 18-3-405.6 defines this offense in greater detail. You commit this crime in Highlands Ranch, Parker, or Castle rock if you:

knowingly observe or take a picture (for sexual gratification),
of someone’s private parts without consent,
where that person expects privacy

While locations where someone has a reasonable expectation of privacy can be debatable, certain places like bathrooms and changing rooms are pretty straightforward. Placing an electronic device that records or captures images in these locations is a common act of invasion of privacy for sexual gratification.

Is Invasion of Privacy for Sexual Gratification Ever a Felony in Colorado?

Invasion of privacy for sexual gratification is at minimum a class 1 misdemeanor. Conviction can lead to:

up to 24 months in county jail,
a maximum fine of $5,000

However, these behaviors become a felony if the defendant has another sex offense on their record or the victim was under 15 and 4 or more years younger than the defendant. Sentencing in these cases can include:

up to 2 years in prison,
fines of $1,000 – $100,000

Additionally, both situations will require sex offender registration. This penalty can be difficult to overcome when it comes to employment, housing, and your reputation.

How to Fight an Invasion of Privacy for Sexual Gratification Charge

To best way to fight charges like these is to secure an experienced criminal defense attorney right away. We have experience defending clients facing invasion of privacy charges and will persistently pursue the best possible outcome for you. Perhaps you didn’t take the picture, privacy wasn’t a reasonable expectation in the location, or the image wasn’t for sexual gratification. That said, contact our law office today for a free consultation. We offer same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans for those facing invasion of privacy charges throughout Colorado.