Colorado Theft Laws: Penalties and Defense Strategies
July 1, 2025
Criminal justice in Colorado has undergone some drastic changes since the state legalized the recreational use and sale of marijuana in 2012.
According to a report from the Drug Policy Alliance, the number of marijuana charges for possession, distribution, and cultivation fell by 95 percent between 2010 and 2014. Possession charges dropped from 30,428 in 2010 to 1,922 in 2014, while distribution and cultivation charges have become nearly nonexistent.
However, though possession, distribution, and cultivation charges have dropped, there has [...]
In the past few years, Colorado has been receiving a lot of national media attention for becoming the first state to legalize recreational marijuana use. Despite the fact that plenty of popular news outlets have been playing up this new legislation and pointing out its positive aspects, the legalization of marijuana has not been without negative side effects.
According to the Durango Herald, Colorado schools saw a record number of drug use violations in the months following marijuana legalization. [...]
Here’s a situation that has happened far too frequently since our state legalized the recreational use of marijuana: A pot “tourist” drives here from a nearby state to partake of Colorado’s recently relaxed laws. While in our state, they sample the wares, enjoy using them, and decide to bring home a few souvenirs.
As they drive home with their legally purchased marijuana, they engage in a minor traffic violation and a police officer pulls them over. Since they weren’t worried [...]
In Colorado, you can be charged with theft even if you didn’t actually steal anything.
State law focuses on intent, not just action. Holding onto lost property, keeping something delivered by mistake, or even being misunderstood can lead to serious charges.
That’s why it’s crucial to understand how Colorado theft laws operate, what the actual penalties entail, and why consulting a Denver, CO criminal defense lawyer at the Law Office of Jacob Martinez as soon as possible could make a [...]
Carrying a concealed weapon is a serious responsibility—and in Colorado, the laws around it can be more complicated than they seem. If you carry a firearm or are thinking about getting a permit, it’s essential to understand your rights and obligations under state law. Because when things go wrong, they can go very wrong.
Even a simple mistake—like carrying in a restricted area or letting your permit lapse—can lead to criminal charges. That’s why knowing the law and calling a [...]
You might have heard police say, “You have the right to remain silent,” on TV or in movies. That’s part of what’s called Miranda rights. But these rights aren’t just for drama, they protect you in real life, especially if you’re questioned by police in Denver. Understanding and exercising these rights can make a big difference in your freedom and future.
If you find yourself in a situation where police are questioning you, it’s important to speak with a Denver [...]