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In today's blog, we'll take a look at an example of how Public Indecency charges can often be filed against innocent people in Colorado:

Sarah and Josh have been dating for a while. They live in Denver. It's usually not a problem when they're affectionate in public, but one day, it was. After a movie one night, Sarah and Josh planned to meet a friend for dinner. While waiting for their friend, they began kissing in front of a restaurant with outdoor seating. While kissing each other, Josh grabbed Sarah's backside and began caressing her. A couple eating outside complained to the restaurant about what was happening. They had young children with them and said the caressing was unacceptable and inappropriate. Could Sarah and Josh face Public Indecency charges in Arapahoe or Denver County? Did they go too far? Let's continue reading.

Public Indecency in Adams County

Because Sarah's boyfriend was caressing Sarah's buttocks, they could be charged with Public Indecency. Public Indecency charges can be filed in many ways in Adams County, but C.R.S. 18-7-301(1)(d) relates specifically to Sarah and Josh's conduct that night. C.R.S. 18-7-301(1)(d) says that any person who's lewdly fondling or caressing the body of another person in a public place or where the conduct may reasonably be expected to be viewed by members of the public, commits public indecency. The important word to focus on in this statute is “lewd”. A prosecutor would have to prove that Josh's “lewd” caressing was meant to arouse sexual interest in Sarah.

[pullquote align=”center” textalign=”center” width=”70%”]If facing Public Indecency charges, contact a sex crimes lawyer immediately.[/pullquote]

Public Indecency Charges Are Unreasonable in Douglas County

Sometimes, it seems our culture is easily offended by its surroundings. While Sarah and her boyfriend's actions may have been inappropriate, I don't think criminal charges should be filed against them. It's also unlikely they intended to offend others, or kiss and caress in front of children. If convicted of Public Indecency in Douglas County, they could face a class 1 petty offense. This is punishable by up to 6 months in the Douglas County Jail.

Facing Public Indecency Charges? Consult a Denver Criminal Defense Lawyer

Public Indecency is normally a class 1 petty offense, but it can be elevated to a class 1 misdemeanor in some cases in Denver and Jefferson County, Colorado. If you or someone you love is facing charges of Public Indecency, or have been contacted by police, contact a criminal lawyer today. Our sex crimes defense attorneys will fight hard for your future.

Request a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one is facing Public Indecency charges, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and call the best sex crimes defense attorneys at the O'Malley Law Office at 303-830-0880, or submit the “Get Help Now” form for a free consultation. Together, we can protect your future.