Interference with Telephone Service in Colorado

Defending Against Domestic Violence-Related Charges under C.R.S. 18-9-306.5

What Is Interference with Telephone Service in Colorado?

In Colorado, interference with telephone service is a criminal offense charged under C.R.S. 18-9-306.5. This statute criminalizes any act that prevents or obstructs another person from making a phone call or transmitting electronic communication—especially in emergencies.

Most commonly, this charge arises during alleged domestic disputes when one party is accused of:

  • Grabbing or breaking a phone

  • Hanging up during a 911 call

  • Taking a phone to prevent someone from calling the police or seeking help

Even if no physical violence occurred, interfering with another person’s ability to seek help can be charged as a misdemeanor, and often carries a domestic violence (DV) enhancement.

Legal Definition Under C.R.S. 18-9-306.5

According to the statute, a person commits interference with telephone service when they knowingly:

“Prevent, obstruct, or delay, by any means, the sending of a message or the making of a telephone call.”

This can include any conduct that interferes with:

  • Landlines

  • Cell phones

  • VoIP services

  • Text messaging

  • Internet-based communications (e.g., messaging apps)

Importantly, the law does not require that the victim actually be calling 911 or another emergency service—it is enough that the accused intended to prevent them from doing so.

Common Examples of Interference with Phone Service

Some of the most frequent real-world scenarios that lead to this charge include:

  • Taking away a partner’s phone during an argument

  • Grabbing a phone out of someone’s hand

  • Hanging up while someone is on a 911 call

  • Smashing or disabling a phone

  • Disconnecting internet routers or turning off Wi-Fi during a dispute

  • Threatening someone to stop them from calling the police

Even minor acts—like briefly unplugging a phone charger—can be used as evidence in these cases, depending on how prosecutors interpret the facts.

Request a Free Consultation

Speak directly with a dedicated defense attorney about your case. We’ll review your situation, answer your legal questions, and explain your options — all at no cost and with no obligation.

Penalties for Interference with Phone Service in Colorado

Interference with telephone service is classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor under Colorado law.

Potential Penalties Include:

  • Up to 364 days in jail

  • A fine up to $1,000

  • Domestic violence sentencing enhancements, if DV is alleged

  • Mandatory protection orders

  • Firearm restrictions

  • Court-ordered domestic violence treatment

When this charge is connected to domestic violence, the consequences go far beyond jail and fines. A conviction can prevent you from owning firearms, affect child custody, and remain on your public record permanently—because DV-tagged charges cannot be sealed or expunged, even if deferred and dismissed.

Defenses Against Interference with Phone Service

An accusation is not the same as a conviction. Many interference charges arise from misunderstandings, exaggerated claims, or minor incidents that escalate unnecessarily. A skilled criminal defense attorney will examine your case for legal and factual defenses such as:

No Intent to Obstruct Communication

This charge requires that the defendant knowingly interfered with phone service. If there was no intent, or the phone was taken for another reason (e.g., safety), the element is not met.

Accidental Interference

Mistaken or reflexive actions—such as knocking over a phone during an argument—should not result in a criminal charge.

The Person Was Not Attempting to Call for Help

If the alleged victim was not making or attempting a phone call, it may be difficult for the prosecution to prove the statutory elements.

No Credible Threat or Force Used

If the accused did not use force, threats, or coercion, the context may suggest a lesser charge—or no criminal offense at all.

Self-Defense or Defense of Property

Taking someone’s phone may be justified in narrow circumstances, such as stopping them from falsely calling police or damaging your property.

Our firm will examine police reports, 911 call logs, text message history, witness statements, and body cam footage to uncover inconsistencies and build a strong defense.

Protection Orders in Interference Cases

Colorado courts issue mandatory protection orders in all domestic violence-related criminal cases. If you’re charged with interference involving an intimate partner, you may be:

  • Prohibited from returning home

  • Barred from all contact with the alleged victim

  • Required to surrender firearms

  • Monitored for compliance

Violating a protection order—even by accident—can result in new charges and affect your ability to resolve the original case favorably.

Our defense team can request modification of protection orders to allow for peaceful contact or co-parenting arrangements, depending on the situation.

Jefferson, Arapahoe, Adams, Denver & Douglas County Defense

We routinely represent clients charged with interference with telephone service across:

  • Jefferson County (Golden)

  • Arapahoe County (Centennial & Littleton)

  • Adams County (Brighton)

  • Douglas County (Castle Rock)

  • Denver County

Whether your case is in a county or municipal court, our experience with local prosecutors and judges allows us to strategize effectively for your best possible outcome.

Why Choose The Lawrence Law Firm

At The Lawrence Law Firm, we understand how easily an argument can be mischaracterized as a criminal offense. Our team is committed to providing:

  • Nonjudgmental, experienced criminal defense

  • Aggressive protection of your rights from day one

  • In-depth knowledge of DV laws and defense strategies

  • Strong negotiation with prosecutors for dismissals or reductions

  • A track record of trial success when necessary

We provide honest advice and personalized legal representation to help you protect your future, restore your reputation, and avoid life-altering penalties.

Contact a Colorado Interference with Phone Service Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has been accused of interfering with someone’s ability to call for help, don’t wait to get legal help. These charges may seem minor, but they carry serious consequences—especially when coupled with domestic violence allegations.

At The Lawrence Law Firm, we offer confidential, no-pressure consultations to help you understand your charges and options. Whether this is your first offense or you’ve been charged before, we’re here to help.

Schedule a Free Consultation

Areas of Practice

Service Areas

  • Denver County
  • Arapahoe County
  • Adams County
  • Douglas County
  • Jefferson County
  • Elbert County
  • Broomfield County

Request Free Consultation

Contact Information

Address

2821 S. Parker Rd. Suite 865 Aurora, CO 80014 Get Directions

Contact

lain@coloradodefenders.com Ph: 720-369-4929

Hours

Monday-Friday: 8 am - 6 pm Weekends and Afterhours By Appointment