In Fort Collins and Larimer County, Menacing charges can easily stem from road rage incidents. Emotions can run high behind the wheel especially in stressful traffic situations. Unfortunately, what starts as a moment of frustration can quickly turn into a serious criminal charge. In Colorado, Menacing during a road rage incident can lead to felony charges, jail time, and a permanent criminal record. If you’ve been accused of Menacing in connection with a road rage event, here’s what you need to know and why you should contact an experienced Fort Collins defense attorney right away.
Loveland Menacing Defense Lawyer: What Is Menacing in Colorado?
Under Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-3-206, Menacing occurs when someone knowingly places or attempts to place another person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury.
This can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony:
- Misdemeanor Menacing: No deadly weapon is involved.
- Felony Menacing: A deadly weapon is used or threatened (including imitation weapons or gestures implying a weapon).
How Menacing Comes Up in Road Rage Cases in Fort Collins
Menacing charges are commonly filed in Fort Collins road rage situations and often based solely on one driver’s perception of another’s actions. Examples might include:
- Pointing a gun or weapon at another driver
- Brandishing a firearm or implying one is present
- Aggressively tailgating while yelling threats
- Exiting a vehicle and approaching another driver in a threatening manner
- Swerving toward a vehicle as a perceived threat
Even if no physical harm occurs, you can still be charged if the other person claims they feared for their safety.
Road Rage + Menacing = Felony Risk in Colorado
Menacing during a road rage incident often leads to felony charges, especially if the alleged victim reports seeing a weapon or even just thinks you had one.
Felony menacing is a Class 5 Felony in Colorado and carries:
- 1 to 3 years in prison
- Up to $100,000 in fines
- 2 years of mandatory parole
- Loss of firearm rights
You can also face additional charges like Reckless Driving, Assault, or Harassment, depending on the circumstances.
If you or someone you love has been charged with Menacing, 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.
Photo by Sherman Trotz