As a buy-and-sell merchant in Denver, you might worry about the legal effects of unknowingly selling stolen items. Understanding fencing laws can help you handle these worries and protect your business. Understanding fencing laws Fencing means trading stolen property....
Theft & Economic Crimes
What to do if your toddler’s actions lead to shoplifting charges
Imagine you are shopping with your toddler when they take an item without your knowledge. Employees confront you and accuse you of shoplifting as you leave the store. They find the item during a search. You explain your innocence, but the store insists on pressing...
The role of intent in theft charges in Colorado
Theft charges can turn lives upside down. In Colorado, theft involves taking someone else's property with the intent to deprive the owner of its use or benefit permanently. Simply put, it is not just about taking something; it is about the intention behind the act....
Stealing from your employer can get you arrested (not just fired)
Most people – according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, 75% of employees -- have taken something from work. People often justify it by saying they aren’t paid enough or the company can afford it. It might be a binder or other “school supplies,” promotional items...
Kleptomania is a disorder
Many steal because they face extreme financial hardship, but some have a mental disorder that affects their ability to control the impulse to steal. It can be something you want, or it could be something you had never previously given a thought. It is common for those...
Is burglary a felony?
Burglary charges involve someone accused of illegally entering a building or accessing a locked space through the use of force. Their intent is to commit a crime. The crime may involve the theft of property or assault of the occupant. There are different degrees of...
Package theft can lead to severe penalties
Online shopping is a way of life for many, particularly around the holidays where gift-givers have packages sent directly to the recipient. This would seem like it is a victimless crime or even a gag, but there are state and federal laws regarding the theft of...
How serious is a Colorado shoplifting charge?
We note the lament of an alleged criminal offender who might say something like, “I just tried the necklace on but forgot to pay for it.” We also note at the proven Denver criminal defense law firm of Shazam Kianpour & Associates the strong likelihood that...
When companies act criminally
You may have heard that corporations and businesses are technically considered “legal persons." While this classification grants them certain rights (like the ability to pursue a civil lawsuit) it also makes them liable for criminal charges.Recently, Colorado-based...
2005 VHS Monster-In-Law Case Dismissed
A South Carolina woman spent the night in jail for failing to return a movie she rented. Back in 2005, when she rented the VHS "monster-in-law" the store owners sought a warrant after she failed to return the video.She was released on a $2,000.00 bond and the case was...