Idon't know about you, but I can't often remember passwords to accounts I set up, let alone even guess them. That's why I was surprised when I read a news story about one man guessing a password to a highway sign. According to the news, the man apparently walked up to an electronic sign on a highway, guessed the sign's password, and re-wrote the message. Instead of it saying “Construction Work Ahead,” he changed the message to “Drive Crazy Y'all”. He was arrested after admitting to police he changed it because he thought it would be funny. In Denver, Adams County and everywhere else in Colorado, this man would be charged with First Degree Criminal Tampering.

Facing Criminal Tampering charges?

First Degree Criminal Tampering Definition in Arapahoe County, Colorado

According to C.R.S. 18-4-505, the definition of First Degree Criminal Tampering in Arapahoe County, Jefferson County and everywhere else in Colorado is:

“Except as provided in sections 18-4-506.3 and 18-4-506.5, a person commits the crime of first degree criminal tampering if, with intent to cause interruption or impairment of a service rendered to the public by a utility or by an institution providing health or safety protection, he tampers with property of a utility or institution. First degree criminal tampering is a class 1 misdemeanor.”

Because the man allegedly changed the highway sign's message, it could be considered tampering with property or a utility or institution, with the intent to cause interruption or impairment of a service rendered to the public. He could risk spending up to 18 months in jail for a class 1 misdemeanor charge.

Criminal Mischief in Douglas County, Colorado – A Related Crime

In some cases where men and women face charges of Criminal Tampering in Douglas County and across Colorado, they can also face charges of Criminal Mischief, C.R.S. 18-4-501. Men and women commit Criminal Mischief whenever they damage real or personal property of other people. Criminal Mischief is sentenced based on the aggregate damage to real or personal property. Criminal Mischief ranges anywhere from a class 3 misdemeanor to a class 2 felony.

Charged with Criminal Tampering or Criminal Mischief in Colorado? Call Us

If facing charges of Criminal Tampering or Criminal Mischief in Colorado, it's imperative you work with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Our exceptional criminal defense lawyers will work hard for favorable plea agreements, reduced charges or even case dismissals. You cannot afford to fight the government's case against you alone. Involving an aggressive criminal defense lawyer is indispensable in your criminal case.

Get Help Now

If facing Criminal Tampering charges in the Denver area, be smart and exercise your right to remain silent. Then, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at the O'Malley Law Office at 303-830-0880. Together, we can protect your future.Request a Free Consultation

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