Motor vehicle theft is a serious charge in Douglas County, Colorado that involves intentionally stealing another person’s car, truck, or motorcycle. While auto theft may seem like an obvious offense, even borrowing a car too long or refusing to return a vehicle that was temporarily provided can result in impactful criminal charges. If you or someone you know has been accused of auto theft in Colorado, contacting an experienced motor vehicle theft attorney is essential.

Douglas County Aggravated Motor Vehicle Theft Laws

Douglas County’s aggravated motor vehicle theft laws prohibit taking control of another’s automobile without authorization. C.R.S. 18-4-409 defines these specific violations. A person commits automobile theft in Castle Rock, Parker, or Highlands Ranch if they:

• knowingly obtain or exercise control,
• of someone’s motor vehicle,
• without authorization or via threat or deception

Not only does this law apply to personal vehicles, but also those owned by companies. Additionally, if your son or daughter borrows your car to go out without telling you, they could face charges of aggravated motor vehicle theft. Furthermore, if they get in an accident that results in damage or injury, penalties can skyrocket.

Will You Go to Prison for Aggravated Motor Vehicle Theft in Colorado?

Each auto theft case is different in Colorado. Therefore, the outcomes are as well. A conviction of second-degree aggravated motor vehicle theft can result in:

• 1 – 3 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections,
• fines of $1,000 – $100,000

However, when factors beyond simply taking someone’s car without consent exist, penalties amplify. If someone tries to alter or disguise the vehicle, uses different license plates, causes significant damage, or commits another offense, first-degree aggravated motor vehicle theft can result. Defendants face up to 12 years in prison, as well as fines of up to $750,000.

Colorado Auto Theft Attorney

Finding a strategic motor vehicle theft attorney is paramount with a felony conviction looming. Our criminal lawyers have decades of experience defending clients charged with aggravated motor vehicle theft throughout Colorado. Perhaps you own the vehicle in question, you had permission to use the car, or the car owner is making a false allegation. Nonetheless, contact our office for a free consultation. We will carefully look over your auto theft case, as well as recommend next steps in your defense. Our attorneys offer same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans for people facing charges throughout the state of Colorado.

So, if you or someone you know has been charged with vehicle theft, be smart. Contact the determined criminal lawyers at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-265-1950. Together, we can protect your future.

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