False imprisonment in Larimer County is typically charged when allegations of unlawfully detaining someone come about. Whether you’re accused of blocking a doorway after an argument or locking someone in a space, significant ramifications exist for a conviction. Furthermore, false imprisonment can become a felony if force or threats are made in the process. It isn’t uncommon for a false imprisonment charge to include a domestic violence enhancement if you’re being accused of unlawfully detaining a current or former romantic partner. Below we discuss false imprisonment charges in more detail and how our experienced Fort Collins criminal lawyers can help defendants in these cases.
Larimer County False Imprisonment Law
Larimer County’s false imprisonment law prohibits confining someone unlawfully in Fort Collins, Loveland, or Estes Park. CRS 18-3-303 provides the specific elements of this offense throughout the state of Colorado. Law enforcement will pursue charges if they believe you:
- knowingly confined or detained someone,
- without their consent AND without legal authority
Peace officers get a pass when it comes to false imprisonment as long as they’re acting in good faith and within their range of duties. However, police detaining someone for suspected criminal activity like shoplifting or vandalism can be problematic if they got the wrong person or aren’t quite sure what happened in a crowd.
How Serious is False Imprisonment in Fort Collins?
Depending on specific facts of the case, false imprisonment in Larimer County can range from a class 2 misdemeanor up to a class 5 felony. Potential penalties for a misdemeanor false imprisonment conviction include:
- a county jail sentence of 3 – 12 months,
- fines of $250 – $1K
However, if the situation involved a threat of force or the use of force coupled with detainment over 12 hours, a class 5 felony applies. Conviction in these cases can result in a prison sentence of up to 3 years followed by parole and a fine of range of $1K – $100K.
Larimer County’s Top Criminal Defense Attorneys
At Sawyer Legal Group, we persistently strive for the best possible outcome for each client. As one of Larimer County’s top criminal defense attorneys, you can rest assured knowing your representation is prepared, determined, and wise to the prosecutor’s tactics. Perhaps consent for the confinement occurred, the other person could go as they please, or threats or force were absent from the situation. Just because you’ve been accused of false imprisonment doesn’t mean you’re guilty. Contact our office for a free, confidential consultation. We will thoroughly analyze your situation and suggest next steps in your defense. With affordable fees and flexible payment plans, obtaining a skilled criminal lawyer is a reality for the accused.
Talk to us about false imprisonment allegations – not the police. 303-731-0719
Photo by Nazar Strutynsky