Lawyer for Complicity Charges in Greeley
Anytime a criminal investigation is taking place, Greeley Police and Weld County Sheriffs look for anyone and everyone involved in the crime. Their detectives and investigators use many tools, including search warrants, to locate co-defendants. If during the investigation, it comes out that an individual had anything to do the crime prior to it being committed, that individual could be charged with a Complicity based crime. Involvement after a crime is called Accessory to Crime.
What is the Definition of Complicity?
The Colorado law definition of Complicity – C.R.S. 18-1-603 – is:
Complicity does not mean a person has to actually be present at the time the crime is committed in Greeley, Windsor, or Johnstown. Any assistance before the crime makes a person Complicit.
What is the Sentence / Punishment for Complicity?
In the eyes of the law, being Complicit in a crime, is the same as committing the actual crime. The law is, in essence, making one person responsible for the actions of another. In Weld, Morgan, and Logan County, Complicity is not a charge itself. It is a legal term, which permits Colorado District Attorneys to charge someone with the actual underlying crime, as long as they played some sort of role prior to its commission.
| Underlying Crime | Complicity Act | Charge for Complicity | ||
| Burglary | Give map to crime scene | Burglary | ||
| Theft | Tell a friend someone leaves their house unlocked | Theft | ||
| Assault | Tell your friend where someone hangs out | Assault | ||
| Sexual Assault | Be a lookout while a friend sexually assaults another | Sexual Assault |
For example, if your friend asked you to drive him somewhere in Greeley, and on the way there, the friend discloses that he plans to Burglarize the place. If after knowing this, you continue to take him there, you may be considered Complicit in this Burglary. This means you will be charged with the same degree Burglary crime as your friend, even though you didn’t actually commit the offense.
Examples of Complicity
If your brother asks to borrow your gun, and he tells you he is using it to go get money someone owes him, you can be charged with the Aggravated Robbery along with your brother. Even though you may tell him it’s a bad idea and you figure he’s a grown man and can make his own choices, the minute you hand over your firearm, you become a part of the crime and the law will charge you as if you committed the crime.
Even something as simple as encouraging a friend to go beat up a guy who has disrespected him may result in a charge based on Complicity. If your friend gets charged with Assault, you can as well. An experienced criminal defense lawyer from the O’Malley Law Office will look at all the circumstances surrounding your charges and will work tirelessly to get you the best possible outcome. Don’t leave your future up to chance.