Theft & Fraud Defense in Denver, Colorado

Theft and fraud charges in Colorado encompass a broad spectrum of offenses — from a misdemeanor shoplifting allegation to complex white-collar fraud prosecutions involving millions of dollars. Regardless of where your case falls on that spectrum, a conviction carries serious consequences: incarceration, restitution obligations, a criminal record that brands you as dishonest, and lasting damage to your career and professional standing. In cases involving financial crimes, the prosecution often devotes significant resources to building their case over months or years before charges are filed. You need a defense team prepared to match that effort.

Types of Theft and Fraud Charges

Colorado’s theft statute (C.R.S. 18-4-401) consolidates what were historically separate offenses into a single framework, with the severity of the charge determined primarily by the value of the property or services involved. Petty theft involving property valued under $300 is a petty offense, while theft of property valued at $1,000 to $2,000 is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Theft exceeding $2,000 enters felony territory, and theft of property valued over $1,000,000 is a Class 2 felony carrying 8 to 24 years in prison. Beyond the general theft statute, Colorado prosecutes specific offenses including shoplifting (often charged as theft with potential civil liability to the retailer), burglary (C.R.S. 18-4-202 through 204, involving unlawful entry with intent to commit a crime), robbery (theft by force or intimidation, a Class 4 felony), aggravated robbery (involving a deadly weapon, a Class 3 felony with mandatory sentencing), embezzlement (theft by a person in a position of trust), identity theft (C.R.S. 18-5-902), and forgery (C.R.S. 18-5-102).

White-Collar Crime and Fraud

Fraud offenses carry particular weight because they involve allegations of intentional deception. Wire fraud, mail fraud, securities fraud, and insurance fraud are commonly prosecuted at both the state and federal level. These cases frequently involve extensive documentary evidence, forensic accounting, and lengthy investigations. Computer crimes, including unauthorized access and data theft, are increasingly prosecuted under both Colorado’s computer crime statutes and federal law. A fraud conviction can result in professional license revocation, debarment from government contracts, and permanent reputational harm.

Defense Strategies

Our approach to theft and fraud defense targets the prosecution’s ability to prove each element of the charge:

• Challenging intent — Most theft and fraud offenses require proof that the defendant acted with specific intent. We present evidence of mistake, misunderstanding, good-faith belief in a claim of right, or lack of knowledge.
• Disputing valuation — The value of the allegedly stolen property determines the severity of the charge. We challenge inflated valuations, question appraisal methods, and argue for fair market value assessments that may reduce the offense level.
• Examining the investigation — In white-collar cases, we review the forensic accounting methodology, subpoena compliance, and investigative procedures for errors and overreach.
• Suppressing improperly obtained evidence — We challenge warrants, subpoenas, and investigative techniques that violate constitutional protections.
• Restitution and resolution — When appropriate, proactive restitution can significantly influence the court’s sentencing decision and may support deferred judgment agreements that result in case dismissal.

Why Choose Blackwood Defense

Our attorneys have defended clients across the full range of theft and fraud charges — from first-time shoplifting allegations in county court to multi-million-dollar federal fraud prosecutions. We understand forensic accounting, digital evidence, and the complex evidentiary issues that arise in financial crime cases. We combine meticulous preparation with aggressive courtroom advocacy to protect both your freedom and your reputation.