Wolf Law is proud to serve Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, and surrounding communities with trusted criminal defense representation. As technology evolves, so do the laws surrounding online activity. From identity theft to cyber harassment, “digital crimes” are becoming more common in Colorado courtrooms — and the consequences can be serious.
At Wolf Law, we understand that digital evidence is often misunderstood, misapplied, or taken out of context. Led by Jeff Wolf, a nationally recognized trial attorney and legal commentator, our team helps clients fight back against digital crime allegations and the heavy penalties that can come with them.
What Are “Digital Crimes” in Colorado?
Colorado law does not use the single phrase “digital crimes.” Instead, it recognizes a range of offenses involving computers, online accounts, and electronic data. These crimes are often prosecuted under the Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.) and can include:
- Unauthorized access to a computer system (hacking or attempting to bypass security)
- Identity theft (using another person’s personal or financial information without consent)
- Internet luring of a child (serious felony involving communications with minors)
- Cyber harassment or stalking (repeated online threats or intimidation)
- Online fraud or phishing schemes (misrepresentation for financial gain)
- Possession or distribution of illegal digital content
Because the digital world is complex, prosecutors often apply multiple statutes to a single set of allegations.
How Colorado Classifies Digital Crimes
Like other criminal offenses, digital crimes can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the facts.
- Misdemeanors: Often involve minor unauthorized access, lower-value fraud, or harassment without serious threats. Colorado recently reduced misdemeanors to two classes, with penalties ranging from probation to up to 364 days in jail.
- Felonies: Include more serious conduct such as identity theft, large-scale fraud, child exploitation, or repeated harassment. Penalties may include years in prison, restitution orders, and permanent felony records.
Some digital crimes — particularly those involving minors, financial institutions, or repeated offenses — carry enhanced sentencing.
The Consequences of a Digital Crime Conviction
Convictions can affect more than just jail time or fines. In today’s world, a digital crime record can:
- Limit job opportunities (especially in IT, finance, or government roles)
- Prevent professional licensing in careers such as law, medicine, or education
- Damage personal reputation and relationships
- Result in long-term financial restitution obligations
Attorney Jeff Wolf emphasizes:
“When prosecutors use digital evidence, they often present it as unquestionable proof. But the reality is that technology is fallible, and context matters. Our job is to make sure judges and juries see the whole picture.”
How Digital Evidence Is Used in These Cases
Digital evidence often forms the backbone of these prosecutions. It may include:
- Emails, text messages, or direct messages
- IP addresses linking devices to alleged activity
- Metadata from photos, documents, or apps
- Social media posts
- Forensic data retrieved from seized devices
While prosecutors treat this as concrete evidence, it can be challenged on many grounds, including accuracy, authenticity, and chain of custody.
Defending Against Digital Crime Charges
Wolf Law approaches digital crime cases with careful analysis and strong advocacy. Defense strategies may include:
- Challenging the search and seizure: Was the evidence obtained legally with a proper warrant?
- Questioning authenticity: Can the prosecution prove the digital data wasn’t altered or misattributed?
- Highlighting lack of intent: Many digital activities are mistakes or misunderstandings, not crimes.
- Technical defenses: Showing that hacking attempts or unauthorized access were accidental or the result of malware.
- Negotiation: In some cases, pursuing diversion, treatment, or reduced charges to protect clients’ records.
Attorney and Partner Colleen Kelley has handled complex trials where digital evidence was at the center of the case. Her courtroom skill helps ensure that online data is not taken at face value without rigorous cross-examination.
Why Local Experience Matters
Digital crimes are prosecuted in state courts across the Denver Metro area, including Denver County Court, Jefferson County Courthouse, and Arapahoe District Court. Each jurisdiction has its own procedures, judges, and tendencies when it comes to digital evidence.
Wolf Law’s experience with local prosecutors, combined with Jeff Wolf’s national media presence on high-profile legal issues, positions our firm to provide strong, credible defense in these complex cases.
Protecting Your Rights in the Digital Age
Being accused of a digital crime can feel overwhelming. Technology moves quickly, and many clients fear they won’t be able to explain their side of the story. At Wolf Law, we believe every client deserves to be heard, understood, and defended with compassion and legal strength.
Call Wolf Law Today
If you’ve been charged with a digital crime in Colorado, don’t wait. Your future and freedom are at stake.
Call Wolf Law in Denver today to schedule your free consultation. Talk to Jeff Wolf and the Wolf Law team about your defense options.
