Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed March 19, 2018
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Some attention can feel flattering, but there can be a point where it starts to feel threatening or dangerous. In those unfortunate instances, the Rocky Mountain State has laws intended to prevent, or at least punish, would-be stalkers. Here is a brief summary of stalking laws in Colorado.
In the most common understanding, stalking is the unwanted pursuit of another person, from following a person to work or showing up at a person's home to making harassing phone calls or leaving written messages or other objects. In some cases, vandalizing a person's property can fall under Colorado’s harassment statute, which criminalizes most stalking actions. Many targets of stalking were once in romantic relationships with their stalkers and many stalking victims have been, or may be, victims of domestic violence as well. If you find yourself in this situation, Colorado offers protective orders that can help protect you from stalkers and domestic abusers.
Many states have laws regarding stalking, although they can differ in terms of how they are obtained and enforced. The following chart outlines Colorado’s anti-stalking statutes.
Code Section |
COLO. REV. STAT. §18-9-111: Harassment |
Stalking Defined as |
A person who, directly, or indirectly through another person, knowingly:
|
Punishment/Classification |
First offense is a Class 5 Felony. (18-9-111(5)(a)); if at time of first offense there is a temporary or permanent restraining order, injunction, or other court order: Class 4 Felony |
Penalty for Repeat Offense |
If within 7 years of date of prior offense for which person was convicted: Class 4 Felony (18-9-111(5)(a.5)) |
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.
Stalking is a complicated and still-developing area of law. The foregoing has provided a general overview of stalking, but there are often criminal and domestic violence charges associated with stalking cases. You can visit FindLaw’s following sections on for more articles and information on this topic:
Stalking cases are rarely open and shut cases, although many of them end in a guilty plea before going to trial for various reasons. If you have been charged with stalking, you're always better off working with a trusted legal professional. Get started today by finding a Colorado criminal defense attorney near you.
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