Harassment is a crime in Douglas County, Colorado that can occur both in-person and online. As we use video conferencing, email, and messaging at record levels, the chance for a cyberbullying charge grows. Foul language, threats, and obscene comments made electronically can all be considered harassment in Colorado. Furthermore, many of these online interactions are recorded or saved in the cloud, adding to the evidence law enforcement is searching for. Contacting an experienced online harassment attorney early on is wise if facing allegations of this unlawful electronic interaction.
What is Online Harassment in Colorado?
Online harassment in Colorado is part of the criminal harassment laws found in C.R.S. 18-9-111. A person commits online harassment in Castle Rock, Parker, or Highlands Ranch if they:
- intending to harass, annoy, or alarm someone,
- directly or indirectly begin communication,
- direct language towards another,
- or make obscene comments, request, suggestions, or proposals,
- by telephone, telephone network, data network, text message, instant message, computer, computer network, computer system, or other electronic medium
Cyberbullying awareness is often highlighted in situations involving minors. However, online harassment can occur between coworkers, neighbors, friends, and family as well.
What Are the Consequences for Online Harassment in Douglas County?
Criminal penalties for online harassment are similar to those of other forms of harassment. Typically, a class 3 misdemeanor applies, potentially resulting in:
- fines of $50 – $750,
- up to 6 months in county jail
In some cases, a skilled criminal defense attorney can mitigate the situation to a probation sentence. Some cases, however, involve online harassment that was due to race, color, or religion. When these factors are present, a class 1 misdemeanor applies. A longer jail sentence as well as higher fines are possible ramifications.
Douglas County Criminal Defense
It is wise to keep your cool when using social media, messaging, and video conferencing software. Making someone uncomfortable, discussing or describing offensive behavior, or making threats can lead to trouble. If you’re being accused of crossing the line, contact a strategic online harassment attorney right away. We have decades of experience representing clients facing harassment charges throughout Colorado. Perhaps the communication wasn’t threatening or you weren’t being obscene or offensive. Our competitive rates and flexible payment plans provide realistic access to skilled representation in criminal matters throughout Colorado.
So, if you or someone you know is facing online harassment charges, be smart. Contact the strategic criminal lawyers at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-265-1950. Together, we can protect your future.
Photo by Markus Winkler