Nine million people in the United States become victims of identity theft every year, according to the Federal Trade Commission. As identity thieves get more Internet savvy and sophisticated, the more dangerous they become and the more damage they can cause. In Colorado, you can be charged with identity theft if you:
- Knowingly obtain and use another person’s identifying information or engage in the unauthorized use of another person’s financial information to send or receive money or obtain credit, property, services or other items of value;
- Knowingly take another person’s identifying information, without their permission, for the purpose of using it, and/or allowing another person to use it, to obtain or send money or obtain credit, property, services or other items of value;
- Knowingly falsify or alter a legal or financial document containing another person’s identifying information;
- Knowingly possess and use another person’s identifying information to apply for credit, property or other financial devices without their permission or authorization;
- Knowingly possess or use another person’s identifying information to secure a government or legal document; or
- Conspire to commit any of the above.
Identity theft is a felony in Colorado. If you are accused of identity theft, it’s in your best interest to retain a Colorado criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Identity theft causes more than financial hardship for its victims. It takes away their sense of security and peace of mind. Your attorney will advise you of your rights under the law and make sure you are aware of the ramifications of the charges you face. He will review your case to determine the best defense options and prepare you for every possible outcome.