Definition of Harassment in Colorado

Harassment in Colorado is a criminal offense that covers a wide range of behaviors meant to annoy, alarm, or intimidate another person. Under Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.) 18-9-111, harassment can include physical contact, obscene gestures, repeated communication, or threats. This charge is often a misdemeanor, but in some cases, it can lead to more serious penalties.

People accused of harassment may face jail time, fines, or restraining orders, depending on the circumstances. If you or a loved one is dealing with harassment charges, consulting a Denver criminal defense lawyer can help you understand your rights and legal options.

Types of Harassment Under Colorado Law

Harassment charges in Colorado can stem from various actions, including:

Physical Harassment

• Pushing, shoving, or kicking someone
• Unwanted touching meant to annoy or harm
• Grabbing or restraining a person without consent

Even if no injuries occur, physical contact with the intent to harass can still lead to criminal charges.

Verbal Harassment

• Threatening harm to another person
• Using obscene language in a public place
• Making offensive comments repeatedly to annoy or alarm someone

Verbal harassment can be charged as a crime, especially if it involves repeated or aggressive behavior.

Cyber Harassment & Stalking

• Sending repeated, unwanted messages via text, email, or social media
• Posting false or damaging information about someone online
• Threatening someone through electronic communication

Cyber harassment cases have increased in recent years, and Colorado courts take them seriously.

Harassment by Telephone or Text

• Making repeated calls to annoy or threaten someone
• Using a phone to send obscene or threatening messages
• Blocking caller ID to hide identity while making harassing calls

Even if no threats are made, persistent, unwanted contact through electronic communication can lead to criminal charges.

Legal Penalties for Harassment in Colorado

The consequences of a harassment conviction depend on the nature of the offense. Under C.R.S. 18-9-111, harassment is typically charged as a class 3 misdemeanor, which can result in:

• Up to six months in jail
• Fines up to $750

However, if harassment involves bias-motivated behavior, such as targeting someone based on race, religion, gender, or disability, it can be elevated to a more severe charge.

In some cases, harassment can also result in protective orders, which restrict the accused from contacting the alleged victim. Violating a protective order can result in additional criminal charges.

Possible Defenses Against Harassment Charges

Being accused of harassment does not automatically mean a conviction. A criminal defense attorney in Denver can explore different defense strategies, such as:

Lack of Intent

The prosecution must prove that the accused intended to harass, threaten, or alarm the other person. This could be a strong defense if the behavior were accidental or misinterpreted.

Free Speech Protection

The First Amendment protects certain types of speech, even offensive ones. If a harassment charge is based on speech alone, a lawyer may argue that the statements were legally protected.

False Allegations

Sometimes, people falsely accuse others of harassment due to personal conflicts, revenge, or misunderstandings. A defense lawyer can gather evidence, such as texts or witness statements, to prove false accusations.

Lack of Evidence

If the prosecution does not have clear proof of harassment—such as recordings, messages, or witness testimony—the case may be dismissed due to insufficient evidence.

What to Do If You Are Charged with Harassment

If you face harassment charges in Colorado, taking the proper steps can help protect your rights.

• Do Not Contact the Alleged Victim. Contacting the other party can worsen the situation and lead to additional charges, such as violating a restraining order.
• Save Any Evidence: If you believe the charges are unfair, keep any relevant messages, emails, or witness statements that may support your defense.
• Avoid Discussing Your Case on Social Media: Anything you post online can be used as evidence against you in court. It is best to stay off social media until your case is resolved.
• Contact a Denver Criminal Defense Lawyer: A skilled defense lawyer can help you understand your legal options, build a strong defense, and work toward reducing or dismissing charges.

How a Criminal Defense Attorney in Denver Can Help

At the Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani, we have extensive experience defending clients against harassment charges in Colorado. We understand the seriousness of these accusations and work tirelessly to protect your rights.

Our team can:

• Review the details of your case and explain your legal options
• Challenge weak evidence presented by the prosecution
• Negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or penalties
• Represent you in court if necessary

Every case is different, and we provide a personalized defense strategy tailored to your situation.

Contact Our Denver Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you have been accused of harassment in Colorado, you need a strong legal defense. The Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani can help you fight the charges and protect your future.

Call us today for a free consultation and discuss your case with an experienced Denver criminal defense lawyer.