In Greeley and across Weld County, Indecent Exposure is more than just a public embarrassment. It’s a criminal offense that can carry serious, lasting consequences. Whether you were accused of streaking, engaging in sexual behavior in public, or were caught in a misunderstood situation, it’s crucial to understand your rights and the legal landscape.
What is Indecent Exposure in Erie and Evans?
Under Colorado Revised Statute § 18-7-302, a person commits Indecent Exposure when they:
- Knowingly expose their genitals to another person with the intent to arouse or satisfy sexual desire, and the exposure is likely to cause “affront or alarm”, or
- Knowingly perform an act of masturbation under circumstances likely to cause affront or alarm, even if the genitals are not exposed.
This statute is written broadly, and because of that, it is often misapplied or misunderstood by law enforcement. This can lead to charges that may not be justified by the facts.
Penalties for Indecent Exposure in Johnstown: A Weld County Indecent Exposure Attorney Explains
The consequences for Indecent Exposure depend on the number of prior offenses and other specific circumstances:
- First or second offense: Classified as a class 1 misdemeanor, which can carry:
- Up to 364 days in jail
- Up to $1,000 in fines
- Mandatory sex offender registration in many cases
- Third or subsequent offense, or the exposure was in view of a minor: Becomes a Class 6 felony, punishable by:
- 12 to 18 months in prison
- Larger fines
- Extended or lifetime sex offender registration
Sex offender registration is a serious matter that can restrict where you live, work, and how you’re viewed in your community, even if the underlying conduct was non-violent or misinterpreted.
Common Situations That Lead to Indecent Exposure Charges
Many people are shocked to find themselves charged with Indecent Exposure for what they considered minor or accidental behavior. Common examples include:
- Public urination in the wrong place or time
- Changing clothes in a public area (like a parking lot or car)
- Engaging in consensual sexual activity where others might see
- Being falsely accused due to a misunderstanding or malicious intent
- Mental health or intoxication-related behavior misinterpreted as sexual in nature
Regardless of intent, law enforcement may arrest based on someone’s perception, even when there was no desire to offend or arouse.
Why You Need a Windsor Criminal Defense Attorney for Indecent Exposure Charges
If you’ve been accused of Indecent Exposure, do not wait to speak with an attorney. Prosecutors in Weld County often pursue these cases aggressively, especially when sex offender registration is at stake.
A skilled criminal defense lawyer can:
- Investigate the facts and challenge the prosecution’s evidence
- Negotiate to reduce or dismiss charges where possible
- Work to avoid sex offender registration through plea agreements or alternative charges
- Represent you in court and protect your rights at every stage
Time is critical. The sooner you involve legal counsel, the better your chances of avoiding the most serious consequences.
If you or someone you love has been charged with Indecent Exposure, 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 to schedule a free initial consultation. Together, we can protect your future.
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