Bicyclists riding near Weld County were harassed by a driver while enjoying a leisurely ride Sunday morning. A video they took during their ride shows the driver behind them honking his horn incessantly but refusing to pass them. It is circulating on YouTube. The bicyclists’ story has gained attention from other bikers near Greeley, Hudson, and Evans who have come forward to say that they have been harassed by the same car in recent weeks.
After running the license plate, police have determined that the vehicle belongs to a man living in Erie. His son has commented on the situation saying that his father is a gentle, older man and this behavior is out of character for him. He says that the bicyclists must have antagonized him somehow. Police are interested in speaking with the driver regarding charges of Harassment (CRS 18-9-111). If someone were hurt by the driver, charges of Vehicular Assault (CRS 18-3-205) could be filed.
In Weld County, the definition of harassment is subjective at best. The legal definition of harassment includes the term “annoy,” which the bikers will no doubt claim they were by the driver. Even though a person can be charged with harassment by making physical contact with someone, which this man did not do, harassment can also be charged if someone follows a person in a public place. The district attorney will have to decide whether or not this incident is harassment or not. Even though the bikers thought the driver’s actions were annoying, the driver might be surprised to find out his actions were criminal. Often, people will bring in law enforcement to settle their petty disputes amongst themselves, and they don’t realize the harsh consequences someone else could face because of their arguments.
This man will want to consider experienced legal counsel as he deals with the backlash of this video. If police contact you about charges of harassment, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact the experienced criminal defense attorneys at the O’Malley Law Office at 970-616-6009. Together, we can protect your future.