Witness tampering is a crime in Colorado that occurs when someone attempts to influence the decisions of a witness or victim. It is always best to watch what you say around an alleged victim of a crime, a witness, or someone who will be testifying as such in any court proceeding. With consequences potentially including years in prison and six figure fines, consulting a witness tampering attorney is especially important for those accused or charged.

What is Considered Witness Tampering in Colorado?

C.R.S. 18-8-707 describes the actions involved with the crime of tampering with a witness or victim in Colorado. Someone commits this offense when they:

• influence a witness or victim,
• to unlawfully withhold testimony,
• not attend an official court proceeding,
• or avoid a summons for them to testify

Some confuse this offense with bribing a witness and also intimidating a witness. This crime is different in that it doesn't involve threatening damage to property, violence, or the offer of money or benefit to persuade a witness.

Is Tampering with a Witness or Victim a Felony in Colorado?

It is. Tampering with a witness or victim is a class 4 felony in Arapahoe County and throughout Colorado. Potential ramifications of conviction can include 2 – 6 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections, as well as fines ranging from $2,000 – $500,000. Additionally, a parole period of 3 years is mandatory upon release from incarceration.

Offenses Related to Tampering With a Witness or Victim

There are a few other crimes closely associated to tampering with a witness or victim which are particularly important to note. As mentioned above, Bribing a Witness C.R.S. 18-8-703 is also a felony offense that occurs when someone offers money or other benefit to a witness or victim. Additionally, Intimidating a Witness C.R.S. 18-8-704 as well as Retaliation Against a Witness C.R.S. 18-8-706 are felony crimes that involve threats of harm to a witness or victim.

Arapahoe County Defense Lawyer

Whenever a defendant is going through the legal process, those closest to them are susceptible to a criminal charge. The defendant themselves, their family members, defense attorneys, private investigators, and really anyone with an interest in the outcome of a case can face accusations of witness tampering. Contact our office for a free consultation with a skilled witness tampering attorney where they will carefully analyze your unique situation and also offer next steps.

If you or someone you know is facing charges of tampering with a witness or victim, be smart. Contact the highly rated defense attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group at 303-830-0880. Together, we can protect your future.

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