In Fort Collins and Loveland, False Imprisonment is a charge that often surprises people. In many cases, the person accused may not even realize their actions could be considered criminal. Unfortunately, a misunderstanding, argument, or moment of poor judgment can quickly turn into a serious legal matter. In Colorado, False Imprisonment is a criminal offense that can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances. At O’Malley Law Office, we represent individuals facing False Imprisonment charges and work to protect their rights, reputations, and futures.
Loveland False Imprisonment Lawyer: What Is False Imprisonment in Colorado?
Under Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-3-303, False Imprisonment is defined as knowingly confining or detaining another person without their consent and without legal authority.
This charge doesn’t require force or physical harm. Simply restricting someone’s freedom of movement can be enough.
Examples of False Imprisonment in Larimer County
False Imprisonment charges often arise in emotionally charged situations, such as:
- Domestic disputes, where one person blocks another from leaving a room or home
- Arguments involving children, such as withholding a child from the other parent without legal custody
- Restraining or locking someone in a room
- Detaining someone because you believe they’ve stolen something or done something wrong
- Blocking an exit or vehicle, preventing someone from leaving
In some cases, False Imprisonment is charged along with Assault, Harassment, or Domestic Violence enhancements.
Misdemeanor vs. Felony False Imprisonment in Loveland, Colorado
The severity of the charge depends on how the alleged False Imprisonment occurred.
Misdemeanor False Imprisonment
- No use of force, threats, or risk of serious harm
- Class 2 misdemeanor
- Up to 120 days in jail
- Up to $750 in fines
Felony False Imprisonment
You may be charged with a Class 5 felony if:
- The alleged victim was forcibly confined or moved from one place to another
- The confinement lasted substantially longer than necessary
- The accused used threats, force, or intimidation
Felony penalties may include:
- 1 to 3 years in prison
- Up to $100,000 in fines
- Mandatory parole
- A potential permanent felony record
Attorney for Estes Park Domestic Violence & False Imprisonment Charges
In domestic relationships, False Imprisonment can be considered an act of Domestic Violence, even if there was no physical harm. This designation adds significant consequences:
- Mandatory protection orders
- Required domestic violence treatment programs
- Loss of firearm rights
- Greater scrutiny in custody or divorce proceedings
If you or someone you love has been charged with False Imprisonment, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact the best criminal defense attorneys from the O’Malley Law Office at 970-658-0007 to schedule a free initial consultation. Together, we can protect your future!
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