What Seems Like Innocent Fun = Criminal Charges | Trespass in Fort Collins

A man faces trespass charges after riding the baggage carousel at DIA.
A man faces trespass charges after riding the baggage carousel at DIA.
Image Credit: Pixabay – Hans

Have you ever stood at the baggage carousel at Denver International Airport and wondered what it would be like to take it for a ride? Just to sit down on it and see where it goes? Well, that’s exactly what Puddle of Mudd lead singer Wes Scantlin did when he arrived at DIA while waiting for his bags. He chose to ignore the “Keep Out” and “Do Not Ride on Carousel” signs and allegedly hopped on the carousel behind the large-item baggage area and came out through an alarmed door out of the secured area. The singer was arrested and lucky for him, a fan bailed him out. He made it to his show a little behind schedule, but you know what they say: better late than never. No charges have been officially filed, but he is being investigated for Trespass / Trespassing.

Second Degree Trespassing in Larimer County

Because the signs were posted, making it clear the area was not open to the public, Wes Scantlin will probably be facing Second Degree Trespassing charges. What is 2nd Degree Trespass / Trespassing (C.R.S. 18-4-503)? Colorado law defines it as:

A person commits the crime of second degree criminal trespass if such person:

  1. Unlawfully enters or remains in or upon the premises of another which are enclosed in a manner designed to exclude intruders or are fenced; or
  2. Knowingly and unlawfully enters or remains in or upon the common areas of a hotel, motel, condominium, or apartment building; or
  3. Knowingly and unlawfully enters or remains in a motor vehicle of another.

The area which Mr. Scantlin entered was off limits. It was designed with signs and No Public Access Notices to keep people out. But it’s understandable, right? There was no criminal intent when he decided to have fun and jump on this baggage carousel to see what would happen. When we think of Trespassing or Domestic Violence Trespass, we think of someone purposely going into someone’s yard or refusing to leave a house when asked. We don’t imagine a silly prank like this.

If you or a loved one has been charged with Second Degree Criminal Trespass, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at 970-658-0007 at the O’Malley Law Office for a free consultation. Together, we can protect your future.