Obstructing is charged in Loveland and Fort Collins when someone is accused of attempting to stop a peace officer, firefighter or EMS provider from doing their job. This can range from physically trying to get in the way, like stepping in front of your friend to stop police from arresting him, to threatening to stop a firefighter from entering the house. Let’s take a closer look at the elements of Obstruction in Colorado law.
Larimer County Obstructing a Police Officer Lawyer: Definition of Obstructing a Peace Officer in Colorado
The Larimer County, Colorado law definition of Obstructing a Peace Officer, Firefighter, Emergency Medical Service Provider, Rescue Specialist, or Volunteer – C.R.S. 18-8-104 – is:
(b) To assure that animals used in law enforcement or fire prevention activities are protected from harm, a person commits obstructing a peace officer or firefighter when, by using or threatening to use violence, force, physical interference, or an obstacle, he or she knowingly obstructs, impairs, or hinders any such animal.
(1.5) A person shall not be charged with the offense described in subsection (1) of this section because the person remained silent or because the person stated a verbal opposition to an order by a government official.
Sentence for Obstructing a Police Officer in Fort Collins
In Fort Collins and Loveland, Obstructing a Peace Officer is a class 2 misdemeanor. This level misdemeanor is punishable by up to 120 days in the Larimer County Jail.