Menacing charges in Douglas County, Colorado often follow after situations that include criminal threats. If someone tries to strike fear of injury in another by threat or action, detrimental charges can result.
This particular offense escalates drastically with the presence of a deadly weapon. While we all say things we don’t necessarily mean from time to time, law enforcement is quick to act in response to serious threats. An allegation of menacing is best approached alongside a particularly experienced defense attorney.
Douglas County Menacing Laws
Douglas County’s menacing law prohibits making certain threats that lead to fear. C.R.S. 18-3-206 defines the specific details of menacing in Colorado:
- “a person commits the crime of menacing if,
- by any threat or physical action,
- he or she knowingly places or attempts to place another person,
- in fear of imminent serious bodily injury.”
When these actions are done with a deadly weapon or something that resembles one, this crime amplifies. Road rage alongside displaying a firearm is a textbook example of menacing in Colorado. However, many objects that are capable of causing serious bodily injury can apply… from a golf club to a glass bottle. Think twice next time before you lose your temper and say something you later regret.
Can You Go to Prison for Menacing in Colorado?
It depends. Each menacing case is different. Therefore, the consequences are as well. Criminal threats made without mention or use of a deadly weapon are a class 1 misdemeanor in Douglas County. Conviction can lead to:
- up to 364 days in county jail,
- fines of up to $1,000
However, when someone displays or makes use of a deadly weapon alongside a criminal threat, a class 5 felony applies. This may result in:
- 1 – 3 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections,
- fines of up to $100,000
Criminal Lawyer for Colorado Menacing Charges
Navigating menacing charges in Colorado requires especially careful steps due to the severity when a deadly weapon is involved. You need a skilled defense attorney who takes the charges as personally as you do. We have decades of experience fighting menacing charges in Colorado and persistently seek the best possible outcome for each of our clients.
Perhaps your statements weren’t threats, you didn’t have a weapon, or you were acting in self-defense. Nevertheless, contact our office today for a free consultation. We will thoroughly analyze your menacing case, as well as recommend next steps. We offer same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans for men and women facing accusations throughout Colorado.
Don’t talk to police about a menacing charge – talk to us. 303-265-1950
Photo by Siavash Ghanbari on Unsplash
