Did you know you can be charged with a crime in Greeley and across Weld County for swearing? Not many people know that the use of foul language can end in being charged with a crime. We came across an article recently, which described this very thing happening. It took place in another state, but the laws are the same in Colorado. Let’s take a look.
Swearing Leads to Criminal Charges
Colin Anderson, a 19-year-old from Brighton, MI, was skateboarding in a parking lot when an officer ticketed his friend for skateboarding. Frustrated, because they were simply standing in the parking lot (and not skateboarding), Anderson swore quietly under his breath. The police officer heard the profanity, and ticketed him for Disorderly Conduct. Anderson fought the ticket, but lost in court. While this situation seems unbelievable, a look at the Colorado statute reveals just how easy it is to be ticketed for swearing in Morgan and Logan County.
Is Swearing Disorderly Conduct?
Disorderly Conduct – C.R.S. 18-9-106, is charged whenever a person “intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly:
(a) Makes a coarse and obviously offensive utterance, gesture, or display in a public place and the utterance, gesture, or display tends to incite an immediate breach of the peace.”
In Greeley, Evans, and Erie, swearing in public can result in a class 1 petty offense. While this isn’t a terribly serious crime, you could still end up with a criminal record. And, for what? Your right to free speech should be protected by law enforcement officers. But instead, the police are looking for any opportunity to charge you with a crime.
Don’t let your free speech rights be infringed!
Why You Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer
It is important to work with an attorney for a Disorderly Conduct charges. Don’t let your free speech rights be infringed. Fight to protect your record and your future. Here at the O’Malley Law Office, getting your case dismissed is our top priority. We know the difference between a favorable plea deal, and a bad offer. Don’t go alone into a court room – a lawyer will be your advocate in court and ensure you get the best possible outcome in your case.
If you or a loved one swore in public and were ticketed for Disorderly Conduct, be smart and exercise your right to remain silent. Then, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at the O’Malley Law Office for a free consultation at 970-616-6009.
Together, we can protect your future.
Image Credit: Pixabay – Unsplash