Fort Collins Identity Theft Attorney: What Is Identity Theft in Colorado?
Under C.R.S. 18-5-902, a person commits Identity Theft by knowingly using the personal identifying information, financial identifying information, or financial device of another person without permission or lawful authority, with the intent to obtain cash, credit, property, services, or any other thing of value, or to make a financial payment. The law also covers possessing or using another person’s identifying information with the intent to use it unlawfully. Examples include using someone else’s Social Security number, credit card, bank account details, or date of birth.
Is Identity Theft a Felony or a Misdemeanor in Larimer County, Colorado?
Identity Theft is generally charged as a felony in Colorado:
- Class 4 felony: the standard classification for many Identity Theft allegations
- Class 2 misdemeanor: may apply to certain related offenses, such as possessing another person’s identifying information with intent to use it unlawfully
- Related charges: Forgery, Criminal Impersonation, Theft, Fraud by Check, and Computer Crime are often filed alongside it
Because a single allegation can involve multiple victims or accounts, prosecutors may file multiple counts in one case.
What Penalties Could You Face? A Loveland Identity Theft Lawyer Explains
Potential consequences include:
- Prison or community corrections: a class 4 felony carries a presumptive range of 2 to 6 years
- Fines and restitution: often including losses to victims, banks, and credit card companies
- Probation or parole: with financial monitoring and strict conditions
- Felony record: which can affect employment, housing, professional licensing, and firearm rights
How Are These Cases Handled in Fort Collins?
Cases arising in Fort Collins are investigated by agencies such as Fort Collins Police Services, the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office, or Colorado State University police, sometimes alongside federal agencies when multiple jurisdictions are involved. They are prosecuted by the Larimer County District Attorney’s Office at the Larimer County Justice Center. Evidence often includes bank records, IP addresses, online account activity, and surveillance footage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Identity Theft
Is Identity Theft a felony in Colorado?
Yes. It is generally charged as a class 4 felony.
Can I be charged if I did not take any money?
Yes. Using or possessing identifying information with the alleged intent to obtain value can be enough.
Can Identity Theft be charged federally?
Yes. Depending on the facts, federal charges may also apply.
Should I talk to police before hiring an attorney?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to counsel.
If you’re facing charges for Identity Theft, 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 consultation. Together, we can protect your future.
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko