One way that Harassment, C.R.S. 18-9-111, is charged is through acts of cyberbullying – harassing others online, anonymously or otherwise, through social media, texting, or another online platform. Acts of cyberbullying Harassment aren’t just wrong – they’re a criminal offense under Colorado law. Subsection (1) (e) of Colorado’s Harassment law – also known as Kiana Arellano’s Law – is often charged against teens and juveniles. If your child has been charged with Harassment, it is imperative that you contact a top criminal defense lawyer on their behalf as soon as possible.
1. Colorado’s Law on Harassment, C.R.S. 18-9-111
Colorado’s law on Harassment, C.R.S. 18-9-111, as it relates to cyberbullying, is as follows:
This subsection is also known as “Kiana Arellano’s Law” in honor of Kiana Arellano, who attempted suicide when she was 13 after becoming the victim of cyberbullying. She survived, but subsequently became disabled. Arellano passed away in 2022 at the age of 23.
2. When Juveniles are Charged with Harassment in Fort Collins
Kiana Arellano’s Law, or subsection (1) (e) of Colorado’s Harassment statute, is often charged against juveniles in Fort Collins. Adults are also charged under this subsection, but teenagers are especially prone to committing acts of cyberbullying. Social media, text messages, and online gaming platforms often provide a space for juveniles to anonymously harass others. If your child has been accused of cyberbullying, or harassing another person through social media, it is imperative that you contact a Larimer County Juvenile Crimes lawyer on their behalf.
3. Penalties for Juveniles Charged with Cyberbullying Harassment in Larimer County
In Larimer County, cyberbullying / Harassment charged under subsection (1) (e) is normally a class 2 misdemeanor, punishable by up to a fine of $750 and / or 120 days in the Larimer County Jail. However, it is rare for juveniles to be sentenced to incarceration, especially if they have not previously been adjudicated of a delinquent act. The Court will most likely instead seek to rehabilitate the juvenile to help them understand the effect of their actions on the victim. They may require the juvenile to take classes on victim empathy and/or seek mental health treatment.
If your child has been charged with Harassment, it is still imperative to contact a top criminal defense lawyer to represent them at the Juvenile Courts. Rehabilitation is usually emphasized, but the judge still has other options for sentencing your child if they are adjudicated. By representing your child, we can mitigate the possibility of detention or other unnecessary penalties. Don’t wait – call us today to discuss your child’s case and help protect their future.
Has your child been charged with Harassment? Help them to be smart, and exercise their right to remain silent. Then call 970-658-0007 to discuss your child’s case with a top Juvenile Crimes lawyer from the O’Malley Law Office today. Together, we can protect your child’s future.
The location for the Larimer County Courthouse is 201 Laporte Avenue, Fort Collins, Colorado. We’ll see you there!
Photo by Alex Green