Threatening another person can lead to menacing charges in Denver. When someone makes threats or takes actions that place another in fear of injury, law enforcement is often quick to act. If a deadly weapon is involved, the charges escalate substantially. While we all say things we regret when we’re angry, threatening violence or making gestures that scare others can be costly. Consult an experienced criminal defense attorney quickly if you’re facing menacing charges in Colorado.
Denver Menacing Law
Denver’s menacing laws prohibit striking fear of injury in others via certain acts. CRS 18-3-206 addresses the specific violations of menacing throughout Colorado. Someone commits this crime in Denver, Cherry Creek, or Lodo if they:
- knowingly place or try to place someone in fear of serious bodily injury,
- by threats or physical actions
If during an attempt to menace another person you mention you’re armed with a deadly weapon or display one, the crime grows in severity. Guns, knives, and many metal tools count as a deadly weapon in Colorado. The next time you’re in a heated argument, watch carefully what you say and who you say it to. Domestic violence enhancements are also common in menacing cases.
When is Menacing a Felony in Denver?
Cases of menacing that don’t involve use or mention of a deadly weapon are class 1 misdemeanors. A conviction for making criminal threats in Denver can include:
- up to 364 days in county jail,
- a maximum fine of $1,000
However, when a defendant uses or references a deadly weapon within the threat, a class 5 felony applies. Felony menacing in Colorado can lead to:
- up to 3 years in DOC,
- fines of $1k – $100k
Convicted felons face many uphill battles in Colorado, including trouble finding / maintaining stable employment, renting a place to live, and navigating negative assumptions about their trustworthiness.
Denver Menacing Attorney
Seeking skilled representation is the first step in Colorado menacing cases. Look no further than the strategic criminal lawyers at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC. We have decades of combined experience defending clients throughout Colorado’s many courtrooms and consistently achieve favorable results. Perhaps the things you said weren’t threats or a deadly weapon never came into play. That said, contact our firm for a free consultation. Our affordable fees and flexible payment plans make strategic defense a reality in these uncertain times.
Don’t talk to police or investigators about menacing allegations – talk to us. 303-830-0880
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio
