Second-degree criminal tampering charges are less severe than first-degree criminal tampering. Still, a conviction can result in jail time, fines, and a criminal record.
Misdemeanor or not, pleading guilty to a criminal charge without consulting a criminal defense attorney is never in your best interest. You may have other options available. Before a conviction can occur, the prosecutor must prove your charges beyond a reasonable doubt.
The elements required to make a conviction for second-degree criminal tampering in Colorado are as follows:
- You were tampering with another person’s property
- You intended to cause injury, annoyance, or inconvenience to another person
- You knowingly made an unauthorized connection with the property of a utility (electric, water, natural gas, etc.)
Depending on the circumstances of your case, a Colorado criminal defense attorney may be able to get your charges reduced or dismissed by using the following defense strategies.
- You were not tampering with another person’s property
- You were unaware that you were making an unauthorized connection with the property of a utility
- You did not intend to cause harm, annoyance, or inconvenience to another person
- The prosecution cannot prove the elements of conviction beyond a reasonable doubt
The options available in your case will be unique to your situation. By consulting a Colorado criminal defense attorney, you will get an honest assessment of the charges against you and a plan to move forward.
