Colorado law makes it a crime to post or distribute certain private images with the intent to harass, intimidate, or harm another person. These cases, sometimes referred to as “revenge porn,” are taken very seriously by courts and prosecutors, including in Weld County, Colorado.
If you are facing allegations involving the Posting of a Private Image in Greeley or elsewhere in Weld County, it is important to understand how the law works and what is at stake.
Posting a Private Image Lawyer in Greeley: Colorado Law Definition of Revenge Porn
Under Colorado law, a person may be charged if they:
- Knowingly post, distribute, or share a private image of another person
- Do so without the person’s consent
- Act with the intent to harass, annoy, threaten, or alarm the person depicted
A “private image” generally refers to an image that a reasonable person would expect to remain private, based on the circumstances in which it was created or shared.
These cases often arise from:
- Relationship breakups
- Ongoing disputes between former partners
- Attempts to embarrass or retaliate against someone online
Criminal Charges and Penalties for Posting a Private Image for Harassment in Erie and Evans
Posting a Private Image for Harassment is typically charged as a misdemeanor in Colorado, but penalties can still be significant. Depending on the circumstances, consequences may include:
- Jail time
- Probation
- Fines and court costs
- Protection orders
- Mandatory counseling or classes
- A permanent criminal record
In some cases, related charges, such as Harassment, Stalking, or Violation of a Protection Order, may also be filed.
How These Cases Are Prosecuted in Weld County
In Weld County, these cases are prosecuted by the Weld County District Attorney’s Office and handled in Weld County Court or District Court, in Greeley.
Prosecutors often focus on:
- Whether the image was private
- Whether consent existed
- The intent behind posting or sharing the image
- How the image was distributed (social media, messaging, email, etc.)
Digital evidence, screenshots, and electronic records frequently play a central role in these cases.
Why Early Legal Representation Matters in Weld County Criminal Cases
Allegations involving private images can escalate quickly and may carry serious personal and legal consequences. An experienced Weld County criminal defense attorney can:
- Evaluate the evidence and charges
- Communicate with prosecutors early in the case
- Protect your constitutional rights
- Work to reduce or dismiss charges where possible
- Advise you on compliance with court orders
If you or someone you love has been charged with Posting a Private Image for Harassment, 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.
Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay