Obstructing A Peace Officer

Obstructing A Peace Officer In Colorado

Obstructing a peace officer, as defined under Colorado law, is a criminal offense that encompasses a variety of actions aimed at hindering, delaying, or obstructing peace officers, firefighters, emergency medical service providers, rescue specialists, or volunteers.

The statute governing this offense is found in the Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.) §18-8-104. This law reflects the state’s commitment to ensuring that law enforcement and emergency service personnel can perform their duties without undue interference, which is deemed crucial for maintaining public safety and order. 

Legal Definition Of Obstructing A Peace Officer

The statute specifies that a person commits obstructing a peace officer when they, by using or threatening to use violence, force, physical interference, or an obstacle, knowingly obstruct, impair, or hinder the enforcement of the penal law or the preservation of the peace by a peace officer, acting under color of his or her official authority.

The law also applies to obstructing firefighters, emergency medical service providers, rescue specialists, or volunteers engaged in their duties.

The essential elements of obstructing a peace officer that must be proven by the prosecution to establish a case of obstructing a peace officer include:

Knowingly: The action must be done knowingly, indicating that the individual was aware that their conduct would likely result in obstruction.
Obstruction, Impairment, or Hindrance: The conduct must obstruct, impair, or hinder a peace officer (or other specified officials).
Official Duty: The peace officer (or other specified official) must be engaged in the lawful performance of their official duties.
Penalties
Obstructing a peace officer is categorized under Colorado law as a class 2 misdemeanor. The penalties for a class 2 misdemeanor in Colorado can include:

• A jail sentence of 3 to 12 months.
• A fine of $250 to $1,000.

However, the exact penalty within these ranges can vary based on several factors, including the defendant’s criminal history, the circumstances of the offense, and the presence of any aggravating or mitigating factors.

Potential Defenses For Obstructing A Peace Officer

Defendants accused of obstructing a peace officer in Colorado may have several potential defenses available, depending on the specifics of their case. Common defenses include:

Lack of Knowledge: Arguing that the defendant was not aware that their actions would obstruct a peace officer.
Accidental Conduct: If the conduct was accidental and not intentional, it may serve as a defense.
The Officer Was Not Performing an Official Duty: If the officer was not engaged in the lawful performance of their duties, the obstruction charge may not be valid.
First Amendment Rights: In some cases, actions construed as obstruction may be defended on the grounds of exercising free speech or other First Amendment rights, though this defense is complex and context-specific.

Obstructing A Peace Officer – A Serious Crime

Obstructing a peace officer in Colorado is treated as a serious offense, reflecting the state’s commitment to protecting public safety and ensuring that law enforcement and emergency services can perform their duties effectively.

Individuals charged with this crime face significant legal consequences, including potential jail time and fines. As with any criminal charge, defendants have the right to a defense and should consult with experienced Colorado Springs legal counsel to explore their options and formulate a defense strategy based on the specifics of their case.