The holidays are right around the corner, and while that may mean celebrations and cookie baking for many, it also means increased theft in Colorado.
Each December, the crime of theft increases more than any other month of the year. That’s no surprise due to the financial hardship that many experience this time of the year which seems to be one of the biggest reasons for the uptick in theft crimes.
What theft crimes see the most significant increase in December, and what are their penalties? Read on to find out.
What Is Theft in Colorado?
One of the first things to understand is what crimes often involve theft, not just this time of the year but all year. They include:
Theft
This crime occurs when someone takes someone else’s property or personal belongings without their consent and intends to deprive them of that property permanently. Theft, however, does not include the use of force to do so.
Robbery
Robbery is committed in Colorado when someone takes the property or personal belongings of someone else with the use of intimidation, force, or threat. An aggravated robbery occurs when a weapon is used in the commission of a robbery.
Burglary
A burglary is when a person enters a domicile or building without consent to commit another crime, such as robbery. The secondary offense is often the intent behind entering another person’s property. In Colorado, burglary can be charged in the first, second, or third degree, depending on the circumstances of the case.
Holiday Theft in Colorado
Holiday theft in Colorado often encompasses other, more specific, types of theft. While you will see an uptick in the crimes mentioned above, you will also see more of the following crimes committed:
Shoplifting
Shoplifting is a theft seen more often during the big holiday season when stores are packed, and employees may be too busy to notice.
Employee Theft
This form of theft occurs when an employee steals from their employer. It can be as small as toilet paper or significant as cash. Ultimately it is a form of theft. It is also considered employee theft to lie about how many hours they’ve worked and to receive additional compensation. It happens more in Colorado and the United States than many people realize. If caught, you face losing your job and possible prosecution.
Package Theft
Another holiday theft crime, package or mail theft, is on the upswing due to increased online shopping. It occurs when someone steals a package left on someone’s porch or mailbox.
What Penalties Can Be Faced?
Several things can happen to a person criminally if caught perpetrating holiday theft. The penalties depend on many factors, such as the value of the items taken. The more something is worth, the steeper the penalties typically. Your criminal history may also play a role in the penalties you face.
If you are facing charges of holiday theft, then make sure to consult with an experienced attorney.
About the Author:
Kimberly Diego is a criminal defense attorney in Denver practicing at The Law Office of Kimberly Diego. She obtained her undergraduate degree from Georgetown University and her law degree from the University of Colorado. She was named one of Super Lawyers’ “Rising Stars of 2012 & 2019-2022” and a “Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Colorado” for 2012-2022 by The National Trial Lawyers. Both honors are limited to a small percentage of practicing attorneys in each state. Additionally, Expertise names her to its lists of the 25 Best Denver DUI Lawyers and 21 Best Denver Criminal Defense Lawyers, both in 2020-2022. Ms. Diego has also been recognized for her work in domestic violence cases.
