Certain acts involving nudity or sexual activity in public violate Colorado's public indecency law. Showing your intimate parts or genitals in view of others can have difficult consequences. This includes engaging in sex with someone in public as well. From hotel lobbies to parks and even your parked car, these behaviors can lead to criminal charges. If you or someone close to you is facing a charge of public nudity, contact an experienced attorney today.

How is Public Indecency Different from Indecent Exposure in Colorado?

Public indecency and indecent exposure are similar offenses in Lakewood. Public Indecency C.R.S. 18-7-301 occurs when someone:

• engages in an act of intercourse in public,
• exposes intimate body parts (not genitals) intending to arouse someone or satisfy sexual desire,
• sexually fondles or gropes another in public,
• knowingly shows their genitals in a manner that is likely to offend

The element that escalates public nudity to indecent exposure in Colorado is the intent behind showing genitals. If a person is intending to satisfy someone's sexual desire (including their own) through displaying their genitals, indecent exposure applies. An example that highlights this difference is urinating in public. While this act does involve a public display of genitals, peeing on a bush or fence wasn't likely meant to arouse anyone or satisfy sexual desire. Therefore, public indecency more accurately applies.

What are the Penalties for Public Indecency in Lakewood?

With no prior convictions for a similar offense, public indecency is a class 1 petty offense in Colorado. Conviction can result in:

• up to 6 months in county jail,
• fines of up to $500

However, with a prior conviction of public indecency on your record, a class 1 misdemeanor applies. This can lead to up to 18 months in county jail, as well as fines of up to $5,000. Additionally, a second public indecency conviction within 5 years requires the defendant to register as a sex offender.

Criminal Defense Attorney in Lakewood

A violation of Jefferson County's public indecency law requires contacting an experienced defense attorney as soon as possible. Evidence exists in these cases that requires analysis from a professional. Perhaps the exposure was an accident, genitals weren't shown, or the display wouldn't have alarmed anyone. Nevertheless, contact our office for a free initial consultation. Our affordable fees and flexible payment plans make skilled representation a reality for those facing charges throughout the state of Colorado.

So, if you or someone you know is facing accusations of public indecency, be smart. Contact the strategic criminal lawyers at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-830-0880. Together, we can protect your future.

Photo by Alexis Mora Angulo