Public Indecency occurs in Denver, Colorado when a person exposes the intimate parts of their body, has sex in public, or shows their genitals to offend another person. Additionally, an act such as urinating in public can be charged as public indecency. Many facing these charges had no intention of offending anyone, but are ensnarled with the law nonetheless. Representation from a Denver public indecency attorney can make all the difference in forming a strong defense to these types of accusations.

What is Public Indecency in Denver?

C.R.S. 18-7-301 describes the conduct of Public Indecency in Colorado. A person commits this offense when they:

• have sex in public,
• lewdly fondle someone in public,
• lewdly expose their intimate parts for the purpose of arousal, or
• expose their genitals in public

These actions don't necessarily have to be out in the open for all to see, but rather in a location where members of the public might be present. Common behaviors that can lead to a Public Indecency charge include people having sex in a parked car and someone choosing to pee in a public place. The exposure of genitals in any manner is a key factor as this could alarm other people nearby. The closely related but more severe charge of Indecent Exposure can result in these situations as well. However, this crime typically includes a person exposing their genitals for the purpose of sexual arousal or masturbating in front of someone else.

Sentencing for Public Indecency in Denver

The potential consequences of a public indecency conviction depend on the individual's past. If there are previous convictions of public indecency or closely related offenses, a class 1 misdemeanor can apply. Punishments can include 6 to 18 months in county jail and a fine of up to $5,000. However, a first offense of public indecency is a class 1 petty offense in Colorado, resulting in up to 6 months in county jail and a fine of up to $500. While those convicted of the class 1 petty offense will not have to register as a sex offender, a second public indecency conviction within 5 years or a third conviction may require sex offender registration.

Denver Public Indecency Lawyer

A Public Indecency charge should be taken seriously in Denver, and throughout Colorado. A petty offense can quickly escalate to a misdemeanor and sex offender registration. In order to combat these charges, it is critical to involve a Denver public indecency attorney early on in the process. Vital evidence exists in all cases and requires careful analysis as soon as possible to determine next steps. Our criminal defense attorneys have decades of combined experience defending clients in Denver and all over Colorado. Contact us today to schedule a free confidential consultation.

If you or someone you know is facing a public indecency charge, be smart. Contact the skilled defense attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group at 303-830-0880. Together, we can protect your future.

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