Public indecency charges in Denver can result whenever someone exposes their genitals or other intimate body parts in public. Sex in a public location (car, park, etc) is also prohibited under this law. Public indecency involves exposing intimate body parts other than your genitals to arouse someone or satisfy their sexual desire. Genital exposure can be charged as either public indecency or the more severe indecent exposure depending on specific details. Any accusations or charges for having sex in a car or exposing intimate parts requires help from a strategic public indecency lawyer.

Colorado's Public Indecency Law

C.R.S. 18-7-301 defines the actions of public indecency in the state of Colorado. Someone commits this offense in Denver, Lodo, or Stapelton if they:

• have sexual intercourse or lewdly fondle or caress someone in a public place or where they could be seen by members of the public,
• expose intimate body parts (other than genitals) to arouse a person or satisfy sexual desire,
• or knowingly expose genitals in a manner that could cause alarm

The term intimate body part refers to the breasts, butt, anus, and pubic area. In terms of physical touch between two people, holding hands, hugging, and kissing doesn't apply to public indecency. However, lustfully fondling or groping your partner in public could be considered offensive to others and therefore, an act of public indecency.

Will I Go to Jail for Public Indecency in Denver?

Prior criminal history is a large determining factor for consequences of a public indecency conviction. As a first-time offense, public indecency is a petty offense potentially resulting in:

• up to 6 months in county jail,
• and as much as $500 in fines

However, prior offenses of public indecency on your record will amplify the situation. Now a class 1 misdemeanor, a defendant could be looking at 6 – 18 months in jail and up to $5,000 in fines. Additionally, a second public indecency offense within 5 years or a third conviction of public indecency can require sex offender registration.

Denver Sex Crimes Attorney

Public indecency charges in Denver are serious. Contacting a skilled criminal defense attorney early on can prove to be invaluable. Perhaps you're facing a false accusation, the exposure wasn't intentional, or there wasn't any exposure of intimate parts or genitals. Nevertheless, contact our office today for a free initial consultation. We will carefully analyze your indecent exposure case, as well as suggest next steps. Your best possible outcome is our priority.

So, if you or someone you know is facing public indecency charges in Colorado, be smart. Contact the experienced defense attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-830-0880. Together, we can protect your future.

Photo by Oleg Magni