In this week's Simplified Law blog, we're going to discuss Obstruction of Telephone Service charges in Denver, Adams, and Jefferson County. This crime brings to mind an outlaw in the Wild West, cutting the telegraph lines so a bank robber can escape a mining town with his loot. Today, this crime is easy to commit and is commonly charged along with Domestic Violence. Let's take a closer look to understand:

The Lawyer's Definition of Obstruction of Telephone Service

The legal jargon:

“Aperson commits obstruction of telephone or telegraph service if the person knowingly prevents, obstructs, or delays, by any means whatsoever, the sending, transmission, conveyance, or delivery in this state of any message, communication, or report by or through any telegraph or telephone line, wire, cable, or other facility or cordless, wireless, electronic, mechanical, or other device.”

The Simplified Definition of Obstruction of Telephone Service

The simple version:

“Aperson commits obstruction of telephone service if they knowingly prevent someone from communicating with others, via a cellphone or other phone network.”

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Examples of Obstruction of Telephone Service Charges

Grabbing the Phone

Jason and his girlfriend, Lisa, are struggling to communicate. Every time they try to work things out, Lisa reverts to calling a friend, who will side with her. One day, Jason and Lisa are at their home in Aurora, when they begin to argue about their relationship. Lisa grabs her phone to call a friend – she doesn't want to work things out. In frustration, Jason grabs the phone from her hand, preventing her from making the call. The neighbors hear them fighting and call the police. Jason is now facing Domestic Violence Obstruction of Telephone Service charges.

Unplugging a Modem

Annie found a file on her computer which was written by her little brother, Kevin. It proves he has been cheating on his girlfriend – who is Annie's best friend. She confronts him with the letter, and he begs her to not tell his girlfriend about the affair. Annie refuses to comply, and prepares to email the note to her friend. Out of desperation, and wanting to save his relationship, Kevin unplugs the modem and the internet stops working. Annie calls the police, and Kevin is charged with Obstruction of Telephone Service in Arapahoe County.

Sentence for Obstruction of Telephone Service

Obstruction of Telephone Service is a class 1 misdemeanor in Arapahoe, El Paso, and Larimer County, and across Colorado. A person convicted of this crime will face:

• Up to 18 months in the Denver County Jail
• Up to $5,000 in fines

Obstruction of Telephone Service: Why You Need a Lawyer

If you have been contacted by the Denver or Arvada police regarding Obstruction of Telephone Service charges, don't hesitate to contact a skillful criminal defense lawyer to fight on your behalf. Even a misdemeanor conviction can have an effect on your future. Don't let the police overcharge you with this crime. A moment of frustration, or someone falsely accusing you shouldn't hold you back in life. Contact the best criminal defense attorney for your case and get the best possible outcome. We fight to win at the O'Malley Law Office.

Get Help Now

If you or a loved one has been charged with Obstruction of Telephone Service, 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. Together, we will protect your future.Request a Free Consultation

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