Many people are surprised to learn that simply refusing to comply, arguing, or recording an officer can lead to a criminal charge for Obstruction of a Peace Officer in Greeley, Colorado.
This offense is often charged alongside others, like Resisting Arrest or Disorderly Conduct, but it can also stand alone. In some cases, what should’ve been a routine interaction becomes a criminal accusation.
If you’ve been charged, here’s what you need to know and how a Weld County criminal defense attorney can help protect your rights.
Weld County Obstructing a Police Officer Lawyer: What Is “Obstruction of a Peace Officer” Under Colorado Law?
Under C.R.S. § 18-8-104, a person commits Obstruction when they:
This law also applies to firefighters, EMTs, and certain other emergency personnel.
In simpler terms, interfering with an officer’s lawful duties, even without physical force, can lead to criminal charges.
What Counts as Obstructing? A Windsor Criminal Defense Attorney Explains
Obstruction can include a wide range of behaviors, such as:
- Refusing to provide identification during a lawful stop
- Getting physically between police and a suspect
- Encouraging someone to flee or resist
- Giving false information during an investigation
- Delaying officers from performing their duties
- Arguing or being verbally confrontational during an arrest or investigation
Important: You don’t have to touch the officer or use force to be charged. Simply making an officer’s job more difficult, if it’s seen as intentional, can be enough.
Greeley Obstruction of an Officer Lawyer: Is It Illegal to Record the Police?
No, it is not illegal to record the police in Colorado—as long as you’re not physically interfering with their duties.
However, some people have been charged with Obstruction after officers claimed the recording was disruptive or the person filming got too close.
If you were arrested while recording, you may have a strong First Amendment defense, but it’s critical to have a lawyer evaluate the details.
Penalties for Obstruction in Colorado
Obstruction of a Peace Officer is typically a Class 2 misdemeanor. This is punishable by up to 120 days in jail and/or fines up to $750. In more serious cases, especially if Obstruction escalates into Resisting Arrest, Assault, or hindering a criminal investigation, additional charges and penalties may apply.
If you or someone you love has been charged with Obstructing a Peace Officer, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent and contact the best criminal defense attorneys from the O’Malley Law Office at 970-616-6009. Together, we can protect your future.
Photo by Rosemary Ketchum