When you hear someone is facing Stalking charges in Denver, Adams, or El Paso County, the term “stalker” comes to mind. But, this law is much more complex than the stereotypical stalker we see in TV and movies today. In today's Simplified Law blog, we're going to take a closer look at this crime.

The Lawyer's Definition of Stalking

The legal jargon:

“Aperson commits stalking if directly, or indirectly through another person, the person knowingly: (a) Makes a credible threat to another person and, in connection with the threat, repeatedly follows, approaches, contacts, or places under surveillance family, or someone with whom that person has or has had a continuing relationship; or (b) Makes a credible threat to another person and in connection with the threat, repeatedly makes any form of communication with that person, a member of that person's immediate family, or someone with whom that person has or has had a continuing relationship, regardless of whether a conversation ensues; or (c) Repeatedly follows, approaches, contacts, places under surveillance, or makes any form of communication with another person, a member of that person's immediate family, or someone with whom that person has or has had a continuing relationship in a manner that would cause a reasonable person to suffer serious emotional distress and does cause that person, a member of that person's immediate family, or someone with whom that person has or has had a continuing relationship to suffer serious emotional distress. For purposes of this paragraph (c), a victim need not show that he or she received professional treatment or counseling to show that he or she suffered serious emotional distress.” Stalking charges can be confusing – a lawyer can help sort through your case.

The Simplified Definition of Stalking

The simplified version:

“Aperson commits stalking if directly, or indirectly, they make a threat to another person, and in connection with this threat, repeatedly follows, approaches, or contacts that person, or their family. Or, if a person repeatedly follows, approaches or contacts a friend or family member of another person, in a manner which could cause serious emotional distress.”

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Examples of Stalking Charges

As you can see, the definition of Stalking – C.R.S. 18-3-602, is extremely complex. Even with the simplified definition, it can be difficult to fully grasp. Let's take a look at examples of Stalking charges in Arapahoe, Jefferson, or Douglas County to clarify this law further.

Image Credit: Pixabay – neshom

Job Loss Frustration

Doug has worked for the same company for over 20 years in Centennial. He got a new boss a couple of months ago, and since then the two have clashed. One day, his boss calls him into his office and fires him without warning. Doug loses his temper, and tells his boss he's going to “hurt him – you'd better watch out!” before storming out of the office. He waits for his boss to leave, then follows him home and parks nearby for a few minutes before leaving. The next day, he follows his former boss to the grocery store he frequents to confront him, but doesn't go up at talk. Later on, he follows him to the gym for a confrontation, but again can't bring himself to face his boss. Later, Doug receives a call from the police; he is facing Stalking charges because he made a threat, and then followed his boss after he made the threat.

Image Credit: Pixabay – moriador

Dating Troubles

Ashley and her boyfriend Evan have been going out for 6 months. They are both 18, and about to graduate high school in Parker. One day they have a big fight, and Ashley breaks up with Evan. Distraught and confused, Evan tries to call her, but she's not answering her phone. So, he goes to school and searches the halls, before driving to her home and the restaurant where she waitresses. A few days pass, and Evan has repeatedly tried to contact Ashley. He's very upset their relationship ended, and he just wants to work things out. One day, he gets a call from the police who inform him he has been charged with Stalking. Apparently, Ashley feels she is suffering “serious emotional distress” as a result of his repeated attempts to contact her.

The laws regarding Stalking charges are complex. It is wise to work with a lawyer.

Why You Need a Criminal Lawyer for Stalking Charges

If you or a loved one is facing Stalking charges, you need to contact a skilled criminal defense lawyer immediately. This is because the Stalking statute is extremely complex. You need the help of a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney who will analyze the discovery in your case to work out a plan for your defense. Don't stand alone in front of a judge or jury and try to defend yourself. Stalking is either a class 4 or class 5 felony which can result in a prison sentence. Don't put your life in the hands of an overworked public defender. Invest in your future with the expertise of a passionate, outstanding attorney. Here at the O'Malley Law Office, we believe in our clients, and we fight to win.

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If you or a loved one is facing Stalking charges, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at the O'Malley Law Office for a free consultation at 303-830-0880 for a free consultation. Together, we can protect your future.Request a Free Consultation