Criminal mischief charges in Parker, Colorado often involve someone damaging another’s property in some way. How badly the items are damaged and their value makes a significant difference when it comes to potential penalties. Commonly known as vandalism, a charge of criminal mischief can be impactful for years to come. Consult a skilled defense attorney right away if you’re facing an accusation of damaging someone’s property in Colorado.
Douglas County’s Criminal Mischief Law
Douglas County’s criminal mischief law prohibits damaging a person’s property. The violations are found in C.R.S. 18-4-501. Someone commits this crime in Parker, Castle Rock, or Highlands Ranch if they:
- knowingly damage personal property,
- or property jointly owned,
- in the course of one criminal episode
It is important to note that the total financial amount of damage within the incident will be added together to determine the ramifications. However, sometimes law enforcement claims the value of an item new instead of used, potentially ballooning the charges.
When is Criminal Mischief a Felony in Colorado?
When the total price range for damaged items in a criminal mischief incident is under $2,000, a misdemeanor applies. This means conviction can result in:
- up to 12 months in county jail,
- fines of up to $1,000
However, when the total damage value reaches or exceeds $2,000, a felony applies. Ramifications can include years in the Colorado Department of Corrections and also six-figure fines. Damaging certain antiques, electronic devices, or furniture can be especially detrimental to your future.
Douglas County’s Top Criminal Lawyers
Whether your criminal mischief charges are a result of a prank, vandalism, or domestic violence, hiring a highly rated defense attorney is a critical move. We have decades of combined experience representing clients facing both misdemeanor and felony criminal mischief. Maybe no property was destroyed, the damage was an accident, or the values are being inflated. Nonetheless, contact our office for a free initial consultation. We will carefully look over your criminal mischief case, as well as suggest next steps in your defense. You can trust Sawyer Legal Group, LLC to prioritize your best possible outcome.
So, if you or someone you know is facing criminal mischief charges in Colorado, be smart. Contact the results-driven defense attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-265-1950. Together, we can protect your future.
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