Obstructing a peace officer is a crime in Douglas County, CO that involves interfering with a police officer performing a lawful duty. Also known as obstruction, doing anything to make a police officer’s job more difficult can lead to a criminal charge. Verbally threatening to harm a police officer, giving them false information, or attempting to stop them from making an arrest are just a few examples of obstruction. Consulting an experienced obstructing a peace officer lawyer is especially wise if facing an accusation or charge.
What is Obstructing a Peace Officer in Douglas County, CO?
C.R.S. 18-8-104 defines the behavior of obstructing a peace officer in Colorado. This crime occurs when by using or threatening to use violence, force, or physical interference, a person knowingly obstructs, impairs, or hinders:
- enforcement of the penal law,
- preservation of peace,
- abatement of fire by a firefighter,
- application of medical treatment or emergency assistance
Those performing these duties include police officers, firefighters, emergency medical providers, rescue specialists, volunteers, and even animals. Due to the broadness of this definition, a great deal of actions could potentially lead to a charge of obstruction. Two closely related charges to obstruction are disarming a peace officer (C.R.S. 18-8-116) and also impersonating a peace officer (C.R.S. 18-8-112).
Punishment for Obstructing a Peace Officer in Castle Rock
Obstructing a peace officer is a class 2 misdemeanor in Douglas County, CO. Conviction can result in up to 120 days in county jail, as well as up to $750 in fines. In some scenarios, a judge may grant probation. A defendant’s actual offense and existence of a criminal record will all come into consideration when deciding on a verdict. Hiring a skilled obstructing a peace officer lawyer who can advocate for you in court is especially invaluable.
Douglas County Defense Lawyer | Police Involved Crimes
Any police involved crime should be handled particularly cautiously. If facing a charge, reputable representation from a defense lawyer is paramount. Any time the “victim” in a criminal case is a member of law enforcement, having a skilled attorney by your side can make a particularly significant impact on your outcome.
Perhaps the peace officer in your unique case was using excessive force and you were simply acting in self-defense or there was other police misconduct of some sort. Contact our office for a free consultation where we will carefully analyze your scenario and offer advice as to next steps.
Don’t talk to law enforcement about an allegation of obstructing a peace officer – talk to us. 303-265-1950
Photo Credit: Pixabay – Utility_Inc