Kidnapping charges in Douglas County, Colorado can result when someone imprisons a person or moves them from one location to another. Doing so by force, persuasion, or enticement can lead to serious felony charges. This crime is closely related to false imprisonment, but involves keeping a person with the intent of payment for their release or moving them from place to place. Ramifications are especially stringent in kidnapping cases. Speak with a skilled defense attorney as soon as possible if you’re facing a kidnapping charge in Colorado.
When False Imprisonment Becomes Kidnapping Charges in Douglas County
There are specific actions that make an act of false imprisonment kidnapping in Highlands Ranch, Castle Rock, or Parker. If a person does the following, they will likely face kidnapping charges:
- confine someone against their will for ransom,
- or move the person they’re imprisoning from one location to another
Using threats or force to confine / detain or imprisoning someone for 12+ hours is usually felony false imprisonment if the above factors aren’t present. First-degree kidnapping involves seizing or carrying a person intending to obtain something of value, such as money, or other concession for their release. Second-degree kidnapping covers all other acts of knowingly and unlawfully seizing or carrying someone somewhere without consent. If the victim in a kidnapping case is a current or former romantic partner of the defendant, a domestic violence enhancement applies.
Is Kidnapping Always a Felony in Colorado?
Kidnapping charges are at minimum a class 4 felony in the state of Colorado. Kidnapping becomes a crime of violence if a deadly weapon was involved or the victim was seriously injured. Depending on multiple factors, a kidnapping conviction in Colorado can result in:
- 2 years – life in prison,
- up to a seven-figure fine
Intending to sell or trade the victim for money or drugs, using a firearm during the acts of kidnapping, injuring the victim, or committing a sexual offense against the victim all increase the penalties.
Douglas County Kidnapping Attorney
Kidnapping is a complicated and complex offense that requires experienced representation. The facts matter a great deal in these cases and can have a massive impact on the outcome. Perhaps you never moved the victim, they came with you willingly, or you were trying to ensure their safety by relocating them. Nevertheless, contact our office to consult with one of our strategic criminal defense attorneys. We offer same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans for those facing criminal allegations throughout Colorado.
Do not talk to police about kidnapping allegations – talk to us. 303-265-1950
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