Colorado Money Laundering Laws

Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed March 09, 2018

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Money laundering is a term you may have heard in the movies or on television, but what does it really mean? Does it mean a little backroom organized crime action à la 1920’s mobster Al Capone who used local laundries to cover up his profits from gambling, racketeering, and bootlegging? Sure, that is one example of money laundering, but more specifically it is the process of converting funds derived from illegal activities into spendable or consumable form. Colorado money laundering laws impose harsh penalties for those who attempt to cheat the system for whatever reason, whether to hide assets, evade tax laws, or increase one’s business profits. Below you will find key information about money laundering laws, penalties, and associated crimes.

Money Laundering Defined

Money laundering is a form of fraud and financial crime. It involves taking unlawfully obtained money and integrating it through lawful businesses so it appears to come from a lawful source. Essentially it is a crime that involves transferring money derived from almost any criminal activity into seemingly legitimate channels in an attempt to hide the origin of the funds. Examples of criminal activities include:

Colorado Money Laundering Laws Overview

The charges and penalties under Colorado’s money laundering laws are detailed below. Keep in mind; you can also be prosecuted under federal money laundering statutes depending on the nature of your case and whether your alleged activities crossed state lines.

Statutes

Penalties
  • Money Laundering: Class 3 felony punishable by 4 to 12 years in prison and a fine of $3,000 to $750,000
  • COCCA: Class 2 felony punishable by punishable by 8 to 24 years in prison, a fine of $5,000 to $1,000,000.

Federal Money Laundering Statutes

Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.

Colorado Codes and Supreme Court Decisions

Additional Resources

If you have additional questions about Colorado’s money laundering laws, click on the following links:

Facing Money Laundering Charges? A Defense Lawyer Can Help

If you’ve been arrested and charged with a violation of Colorado’s money laundering statute, remember that you can also be charged with several associated crimes. It is wise to get a legal advice from a Colorado criminal defense attorney to understand what penalties you are facing including possible prison time and more. Start the process today by contacting a Colorado defense lawyer near you.

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