Most people don’t know that an act of petty theft can quickly escalate into a felony burglary charge in Larimer County. Theft – C.R.S. 18-4-401 is charged when a person takes someone else’s property for their own. For example, if a person wears a new pair of jeans out of the department store, takes a pack of gum from the grocery store, or hides a few t-shirts from Foothills Mall in Fort Collins in their purse. If you are caught, you will be charged with petty theft (depending on the total value of the items that are taken) – you will most likely get a ticket and fine, and possibly a court summons. What most people fail to consider is that these seemingly small actions can turn into a felony burglary charge in an instant.
Using Shoplifting Tools = Felony Burglary Charge in Larimer County
Stealing that pair of jeans is fairly simple – all you need is a little pair of pliers and a magnet for pulling off the security tag in the dressing room. Then, all you have to do is walk out, right? When you get caught, there is a statute in Colorado law that will turn that inconsequential petty or misdemeanor theft into a felony burglary charge. Possession of Burglary Tools – C.R.S. 18-4-205 is a class 5 felony, and can be punished with up to 3 years imprisonment in the Colorado Department of Corrections. Having a felony on your record can be devastating – it can make it difficult to get a job or find a place to live. Unfortunately, many people get a high from shoplifting and don’t understand the consequences. If you are found with burglary tools in your possession when you are caught shoplifting, you can have a lifetime of regret.
If you are facing allegations of Possession of Burglary Tools and are facing a felony burglary charge, it is important that you work with an experienced criminal defense attorney in Fort Collins, Loveland and Estes Park. We will work hard in your defense and will identify key witnesses to speak on your behalf. We understand how a felony on your record can destroy your future. Don’t stand alone in court – let us defend your freedom and future.