Bill > HB1142

This bill increases criminal penalties for individuals who fail or refuse to leave premises when requested by a peace officer. Specifically, the bill modifies Colorado law to elevate the severity of offenses related to refusing to exit a property when ordered by law enforcement. Under the new provisions, a person who barricades or refuses police entry and knowingly refuses to leave premises when a peace officer has probable cause to believe a crime is occurring would now be charged with a Class 6 felony, instead of the previous Class 2 misdemeanor. Additionally, if the same person holds another person hostage or confines someone without consent during the same criminal episode, they would be charged with a Class 5 felony instead of a Class 1 misdemeanor. The bill also increases the penalty for causing a peace officer to believe the person possesses a deadly weapon during such an incident to a Class 5 felony. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, and apply to offenses committed on or after that date. The bill aims to enhance public safety by imposing more serious legal consequences for individuals who obstruct law enforcement and create dangerous situations.

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https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb25-1142