It's not difficult to be charged with Menacing in Adams, Jefferson, or Douglas County. In fact, you can be charged even if you don't have a weapon to menace the “victim” with – simply alluding to the fact you have a weapon is enough. But, in some cases, people lose their temper and do things they will regret later. One woman in Clifton, Colorado, is regretting her decision to scare some children. Let's take a look at the incident and what she has been charged with.

Frustrated Woman Points Rifle at Kids

According to reports, a woman grew frustrated with the boy who lived next door. Apparently, he was practicing his clarinet outside. The woman was drinking, and most likely was annoyed by the sound of the clarinet. So, the Alcohol is a common factor in Menacing cases throughout Colorado.woman grabbed her rifle, aimed it at the group of children in the backyard, and yelled “fire in the hole!” The police were called, and once they arrived it was determined the gun wasn't loaded. Obviously the woman wasn't trying to harm the children. But, regardless of her intent, she was charged with Menacing. Let's dig deeper into the law to see how a person is charged.

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What is Menacing in Colorado?

Our law office strives to help people charged with crimes in Arapahoe, Denver, and El Paso County understand the charges they are facing. One way we do this is by offering a simplified definition of certain crimes in Colorado. Here is our simple definition of Menacing – C.R.S. 18-3-206:

“Aperson will be charged with Menacing if their actions cause another person to be put in fear of imminent serious bodily injury whether by use of a weapon or simply the alleged victim's belief they have a weapon.”

When the Mesa County woman pointed the unloaded rifle at the children, she put them in fear of imminent serious injury by use of a weapon. It's important to understand the following elements aren't considered when a person is charged with Menacing:

1.Intent

2.Level of Intoxication

The woman was intoxicated, and therefore wasn't making correct decisions. Also, it wasn't her intent to harm the children (the gun wasn't loaded). But, regardless, she is facing felony Menacing charges. Because a “deadly weapon” was used, she most likely has been charged with a class 5 felony.

Charged with Menacing? Why You Need a Lawyer

An attorney will fight to get the best possible outcome in your case

Often, people are charged with Menacing after they lose their temper. They may have been drinking alcohol and then been put into a frustrating situation. A Menacing conviction can be life-changing. This is why it's important to go to court with an outstanding criminal defense lawyer who will fight to get you the best possible outcome in your case. We are able to highlight your innocence and work out favorable plea deals, or even get your case dismissed. Don't stand alone in front of a judge or jury – contact an honest attorney to fight on your behalf.

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If you or a loved one has been charged with Menacing, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at the O'Malley Law Office at 303-830-0880. If you or a friend needs a jail visit from an attorney, we can do that. Together, we will protect your future.Request a Free Consultation

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