Preventing officers from making an arrest often leads to resisting arrest charges in Douglas County, Colorado. Threatening police or using any physical force against them while they’re trying to carry out certain duties is unlawful in Castle Rock, Parker, and Highlands Ranch. Trying to intervene in the arrest of another can also result in criminal charges. Determined, experienced representation is key in these cases and you should contact a defense attorney immediately if allegations of resisting arrest exist for you or a loved one.
Douglas County Resisting Arrest Law
Douglas County’s resisting arrest law prohibits specific actions against law enforcement. CRS 18-8-103 addresses the specific violations throughout Colorado:
- “a person commits resisting arrest,
- if he knowingly prevents or attempts to prevent a peace officer, acting under color of his official authority,
- from effecting an arrest of the actor or another, by:
- using or threatening to use physical force or violence against the peace officer or another;
- or using any other means which creates a substantial risk of causing bodily injury to the peace officer or another.”
Unfortunately, whether you think the arrest is legitimate in the first place is irrelevant. Acts of self-defense can apply when police resort to excessive force, but it isn’t a guarantee.
Is Resisting Arrest a Misdemeanor in Douglas County?
In many cases, resisting arrest is a class 2 misdemeanor. It is important to note that this is in addition to the underlying crime. A conviction can lead to an additional:
- 3 – 12 months in county jail,
- fines of $250 – $1,000
However, if the police officer experiences some type of pain during the arrest altercation, a charge of second-degree assault can apply. A prison sentence and up to six-figure fines can apply if an officer is injured in some way.
Criminal Defense Lawyer in Castle Rock
Just because you’ve been charged with resisting arrest in Colorado doesn’t mean you’re guilty. Many things can happen during interactions with police and they make mistakes too. Perhaps you were acting in defense of another, the officer was off-duty, or you encountered a situation of excessive force. That said, contact our office or fill out our free consultation request form. One of our strategic criminal lawyers will respond to discuss your unique case and recommend next steps. We offer same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans for those facing criminal accusations throughout Colorado.
If you or someone you know is facing resisting arrest charges in Colorado, be smart. Contact our seasoned defense attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-265-1950. Together, we can protect your future.
Photo by Mark Boss
