Ski Service Theft Defense Lawyer in Breckenridge, CO

Theft of ski services is taken very seriously by ski resorts in Colorado. This crime involves the use of ski pass purchased by someone other than yourself. These passes are nontransferable, but individuals participate in pass swapping routinely, most not knowing it is a crime. If you have been charged with theft of ski services in the mountain region of Colorado, you need an attorney who has helped people through similar situations as your own. Contact me, criminal defense attorney J.B. Katz. I have more than 20 years of Breckenridge criminal defense experience that I will put to your benefit.

Skilled Representation For Theft Of Ski Service Charges In Colorado

Theft of ski services can involve all types of passes, including:

• Day ski pass
• Multi-day ski pass
• Full season ski passes

The crime of ski service theft occurs once you present yourself to the lift operator, whether you knew it was criminal behavior or not. Unfortunately, you can be convicted of this crime even if you didn’t intend to commit a crime. Ignorance of the law is not a defense. The ski resort will not take this crime lightly, so neither should you. Obtain the guidance of an aggressive defense lawyer in order to build the most solid case possible for your charges.

The law specifically states that “any unauthorized person who, with the intent to profit therefrom, resells or offers to resell any ticket, pass, badge, pin, coupon, or other device which then entitles the bearer to the use, benefit, or enjoyment of any skiing service or skiing facility commits a class 2 petty offense.”

It’s important to note that the person who is providing the fraudulent pass and the person who receives it are both breaking the law and can be punished. One of the most common consequences for the individual who provides the fraudulent ski pass is the revocation of their ski pass, which could have a significant monetary value.

Once you are caught using an unauthorized ski pass, you are either issued a summons to appear in court and released, or arrested, depending on the situation.  

Avoid Using an Unauthorized Pass

The best way to avoid being faced with this charge is to purchase your ski passes from a legitimate source. Don’t purchase this from someone walking around offering to sell the pass or from websites that look suspect. You can also call the ski resort to confirm that the ski pass you purchased is legitimate. The best defense is to avoid breaking the law in the first place.

Penalties 

If you are charged with and convicted of using an unauthorized ski pass, you face a fine of up to $999. Additionally, jail time could even be a possibility in some circumstances. You can spend up to 180 days in jail for this crime. You can also be required to pay the fine and spend time in jail.

The Reason Behind this Law

Colorado, specifically the Vail valley and Breckenridge areas, is one of the most popular ski areas in the country. Out of town visitors arrive often, and this type of behavior is on the rise. In order to use the ski slopes, all skiers must have a pass or a ticket. If you decide to use someone else’s, you are essentially stealing from the ski resort by not paying for your own ticket. The difference between this and shoplifting is quite minimal. 

Toward the end of the ski season, and certainly on closing weekend, ski service theft is quite prevalent. This is due to the fact that the season is ending, and if someone’s pass is revoked, it doesn’t hold as much weight. The law and presence of police officers helps prevent this.

Police Officers are on the Lookout

Because of the increase violation of this law, ski resorts in Colorado have police officers on skis. Their presence may decrease the prevalence of this crime, and they are also available for help and safety issues. While they don’t make too many arrests, it’s a good idea to know that they are around and certainly have the authority to do so.  

Helping With Charges For Colorado Ski Resorts

I will provide you with dedicated and passionate representation no matter where your incident occurred, including:

• Vail
• Keystone
• Breckenridge
• A-Basin
• Beaver Creek
• Loveland
• Winter Park

Schedule A Free Consultation With A Breckenridge Ski Service Theft Attorney

Call (970) 453-5533, or contact my law office online to schedule your free initial consultation. I will be by your side throughout your entire case, fighting to ensure your rights are protected.