Trespassing in Douglas County, Colorado is an offense that involves entering or remaining on another’s property without authorization. Depending on the type of property and a person’s reason for visiting, consequences can range from fines to time in prison. Earlier this month, a social media model was arrested for trespassing after allegedly making her way onto the field at the Super Bowl and attempting to streak. Some are calling the situation a publicity stunt gone wrong. Any accusations or charges relating to unlawfully entering or remaining somewhere require representation from an experienced trespassing attorney.

Colorado’s Trespassing Laws

Criminal trespass is charged in three different degrees throughout the state of Colorado. On the least severe end, CRS 18-4-504 3rd Degree Trespassing usually includes unlawfully entering or remaining in locations that aren’t dwellings and lack perimeters like a fence.

CRS 18-4-503 2nd Degree Trespassing occurs if you enter or remain somewhere that is enclosed, the common areas of a hotel / condo / apartment, or inside another’s motor vehicle.

The most serious form of trespass in Colorado is CRS 18-4-502 1st Degree Trespassing. These charges often result when a person or group of people unlawfully enter or remain in someone’s home or enter a vehicle with the intent to commit a crime.

Can You Go to Jail for Trespassing in Douglas County?

Below is a brief breakdown of trespassing penalties in Castle Rock, Parker, and Highlands Ranch:

• Third-degree Trespass = class 1 petty offense (up to 6 months in county jail and up to $500 in fines)
• Second-degree Trespass = class 3 misdemeanor (up to 6 months in county jail and fines of $50 – $750)
• First-degree Trespass = class 5 felony (1 – 3 years in prison and fines of $1,000 – $100,000)

However, consequences amplify in each scenario when the property is identified as agricultural land. This includes property that is a farm or ranch.

Douglas County Trespassing Attorney

There are defenses to trespassing charges in Colorado that can apply to your specific case. Hiring a particularly skilled attorney with a thorough, working knowledge of trespassing laws can have many benefits. Perhaps you had permission from the property owner to be present, you didn’t know the location was private property, or you didn’t intend to commit a crime there. Nevertheless, contact our office for a free initial consultation.

We offer same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans for those facing accusations throughout the state of Colorado.

So, if you or someone you know is facing a trespassing charge in Colorado, be smart. Contact the strategic criminal defense lawyers at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-265-1950. Together, we can protect your future.

Photo by Juan Salamanca