Colorado criminal charge
Unauthorized release of an animal in Colorado
Unauthorized release of an animal is a class 2 misdemeanor under Colorado criminal law, defined by C.R.S. § 18-9-206. As a class 2 misdemeanor, it is punishable within the statutory sentencing range Colorado sets for that offense class. Colorado sorts criminal offenses into felonies, misdemeanors, and petty offenses, each carrying its own penalty range.
Defined by C.R.S. § 18-9-206.
What is the penalty for unauthorized release of an animal in Colorado?
| Penalty | Range | Basis | Authority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jail / prison | up to 120 days (no statutory minimum) | discretionary | C.R.S. § 18-1.3-501 |
| Fine | up to 750 usd (no statutory minimum) | discretionary | C.R.S. § 18-1.3-501 |
Applies to offenses on/after 2022-03-01 (SB21-271).
Common questions about unauthorized release of an animal in Colorado
Is unauthorized release of an animal a felony or a misdemeanor in Colorado?
What are the penalties for unauthorized release of an animal in Colorado?
As a class 2 misdemeanor, unauthorized release of an animal carries up to 120 days (no mandatory minimum) of incarceration and a fine of up to $750 (no mandatory minimum) under C.R.S. § 18-1.3-501 (offenses on/after 2022-03-01 (SB21-271)).
Which Colorado statute covers unauthorized release of an animal?
Unauthorized release of an animal is governed by C.R.S. § 18-9-206 (Unauthorized release of an animal - penalty - restitution).
Legal terms used in this law
This reference is informational and is not legal advice. Penalty ranges are the statutory classification ranges; sentencing in a specific case depends on its facts and history.