A Burglary charge involving a home is treated as one of the more serious property crimes under Colorado law. If you or someone you know is facing this charge in Greeley or elsewhere in Weld County, here’s an overview of how these cases typically work.
What is Burglary under Colorado law? A Greeley Burglary Attorney Explains
Colorado divides Burglary into degrees under C.R.S. §§ 18-4-202 through 18-4-204. Second Degree Burglary applies when a person knowingly breaks into or unlawfully enters a building or occupied structure with intent to commit a crime inside.
Why Does It Matter that the Burglary Involved a Home in Weld County?
When the structure entered is a dwelling, meaning a place where people live, the charge is elevated. Second Degree Burglary of a dwelling is a class 3 felony in Colorado, compared to a class 4 felony for Burglary of a non-dwelling structure.
Can a Firestone Burglary Charges Become Even More Serious?
Yes. First Degree Burglary applies when a person commits Burglary while armed with explosives or a deadly weapon, or assaults someone during the offense. This elevates the charge to a class 3 felony regardless of whether the structure is a dwelling, and circumstances involving a dwelling can factor into sentencing.
What Penalties Come with a Home Burglary Conviction in Windsor?
A class 3 felony conviction in Windsor, Colorado carries a presumptive sentencing range of 4 to 12 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections, along with substantial fines. Because Burglary of a dwelling is also classified as a crime of violence in some circumstances, sentencing can be affected by mandatory provisions.
Where are These Cases Handled in Weld County?
Felony Burglary cases originating in Greeley, Evans, Windsor, and other parts of Weld County are prosecuted in the Nineteenth Judicial District Court (Weld County Court), located in Greeley.
Does a Burglary Charge Affect More than Just Criminal Penalties?
Yes. A felony conviction can affect employment, housing applications, firearm rights, and immigration status, in addition to the direct criminal penalties involved.
What Should I Do If I’m Facing a Home Burglary Charge in Greeley?
Given the severity of these charges, it’s important to understand the process early and work with a local attorney familiar with how Weld County courts handle felony Burglary cases.
If you or someone you love has been charged with Burglary of a home, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact the best criminal defense lawyers from the O’Malley Law Office at 970-616-6009 to schedule a free initial consultation. Together, we can protect your future.
Photo by Craig Adderley