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Theft is a serious crime in Colorado, and when someone is convicted of multiple theft offenses, the consequences become increasingly severe. Colorado law treats repeat offenders with escalating penalties, reflecting the state’s commitment to deterring habitual criminal behavior.

Understanding these consequences is essential for anyone facing theft charges, especially with prior convictions.

Understanding Theft Laws in Colorado

In Colorado, theft is defined as knowingly taking another person’s property without permission and intending to deprive the owner of its use or value permanently. The value of the stolen property largely determines the severity of a theft charge.

Petty theft involving property valued at less than $300 is considered a misdemeanor and can result in fines, community service, and up to six months in jail.

Misdemeanor theft applies to property valued between $300 and $2,000, carrying penalties that may include up to 18 months in jail and fines.

Felony theft involves property valued over $2,000. Depending on the specific amount involved, penalties range from one to 24 years in prison and substantial fines.

While a first-time theft conviction is serious, the penalties for repeat offenses are much more severe. Colorado’s legal system imposes harsher sentences for those who continue to engage in theft-related crimes to discourage repeated criminal behavior.

Colorado Has Enhanced Penalties for Repeat Offenders

Colorado law is clear about its stance on repeat offenders. If you have prior theft convictions, your current charges may be upgraded, leading to more severe penalties. The state’s habitual criminal statute allows for enhanced sentencing when someone has multiple prior convictions.

If you are convicted of a second or subsequent theft offense, even if the value of the stolen property would typically qualify as a misdemeanor, your charge could be upgraded to a felony. This enhancement reflects the seriousness with which Colorado treats repeat offenses. A felony conviction carries much harsher penalties, including longer prison sentences and higher fines.

This is important because Colorado’s habitual criminal statute can significantly increase prison time for repeat felony theft offenders. For example, a third felony theft conviction can lead to a sentence of four times the maximum for the underlying felony charge.

Depending on the circumstances of the case, this could mean a potential sentence of up to 96 years in prison. The fines associated with these charges can also be substantial, adding to the financial burden of a conviction.

In addition to longer prison sentences and higher fines, repeat felony convictions can lead to the loss of certain civil rights. For instance, a felony conviction can result in the loss of voting rights, the inability to possess firearms, and the difficulty of obtaining certain professional licenses. These long-term consequences can severely impact your ability to rebuild your life after serving your sentence.

Having multiple theft convictions on your record can also make finding employment or secure housing difficult. Many employers and landlords conduct background checks, and a history of theft offenses can be a significant red flag. This can lead to ongoing financial instability, creating a difficult-to-break cycle.

Being Charged with Theft in Colorado Doesn’t Automatically Equate to a Conviction – Fight Back

Given the severe consequences of repeat theft offenses in Colorado, it is crucial to have experienced legal representation if you are facing charges. A skilled criminal defense attorney can evaluate your case, explore possible defenses, and work to mitigate the impact of prior convictions.

In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate a plea deal that reduces the charges or penalties, potentially avoiding the harshest consequences of a repeat offense.

About the Author:

Denver-based criminal defense and DUI attorney Jacob E. Martinez is a knowledgeable and experienced litigator with a record of success providing innovative solutions to clients facing criminal charges of any severity. Countless legal organizations have recognized Mr. Martinez for his exemplary defense work, including Avvo, Best DWI Attorneys, Expertise, Lawyers of Distinction, The National Trial Lawyers, and others. He was also named one of the 10 Best in Client Satisfaction in Colorado by the American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys and is Lead Counsel rated.