If someone views or takes pictures of another’s intimate body parts without their knowledge, criminal invasion of privacy charges can result. This is an offense that becomes even more serious when the intent is sexual gratification or the person has a prior conviction for similar behavior. Location often makes or breaks these cases, as laws protect those places where privacy is a reasonable expectation. Reach out to a skilled criminal lawyer right away if you’re facing an allegation of criminal invasion of privacy in Douglas County.
Douglas County Invasion of Privacy Laws
Douglas County’s invasion of privacy laws prohibit specific behaviors in view of another person’s intimate parts. C.R.S. 18-7-801 defines the elements of this offense throughout Colorado. You commit criminal invasion of privacy in Castle Rock, Parker, or Highlands Ranch if you:
- knowingly view or take a picture,
- of someone’s genitalia, perineum, anus, butt, pubic area, or breasts,
- without their consent
Restrooms, locker rooms, and changing rooms are locations where hidden cameras are sometimes spotted. Whoever placed these devices in these specific locations can face serious criminal charges. As housing in Highlands Ranch and Lone Tree becomes more crowded, observing your neighbor at the wrong time or taking a quick pic can prove to be costly.
Is Invasion of Privacy Always a Misdemeanor in Colorado?
Criminal invasion of privacy is a class 2 misdemeanor throughout Douglas County. Defendants face up to one year in county jail and also a maximum fine of $1k for conviction. However, if a prosecutor can prove the the actions were for the purpose of sexual gratification, a class 1 misdemeanor applies. This can add to the jail sentence, as well as increase the fine amount. Furthermore, if the person being viewed or photographed is a juvenile under 15, the crime is a felony. Both misdemeanor and felony invasion of privacy for sexual gratification require sex offender registration if convicted.
Determined Representation in Douglas County
Securing a strategic criminal lawyer is particularly essential in cases involving invasion of privacy. There is a lot at stake and errors can have a significant impact on the outcome. It’s very important that defendants exercise their right to remain silent when confronted or questioned by police. Remain calm, don’t try to explain yourself, and request to speak with an attorney. Perhaps the pictures were taken in a location lacking an expectation of privacy or they weren’t for anyone’s sexual gratification. Nonetheless, contact our team for a free consultation. We offer same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans for those facing invasion of privacy accusations throughout Colorado.
So, if you or someone you know is facing a criminal invasion of privacy charge, be smart. Contact the highly rated defense lawyers at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-265-1950. Together, we can protect your future.
Photo by Toa Heftiba