Colorado § 18-18-420 - Imitation controlled substances - definitions.
Full text of Colorado Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-18-420 — Imitation controlled substances - definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 18-18-420. Imitation controlled substances - definitions.
As used in sections 18-18-419 to 18-18-424, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) "Controlled substance" shall have the same meaning as set forth in section 18-18-102 (5).
(2) "Distribute" means the actual, constructive, or attempted transfer, delivery, or dispensing to another of an imitation controlled substance, with or without remuneration.
(3) "Imitation controlled substance" means a substance that is not the controlled substance that it is purported to be but which, by appearance, including color, shape, size, and markings, by representations made, and by consideration of all relevant factors as set forth in section 18-18-421, would lead a reasonable person to believe that the substance is the controlled substance that it is purported to be.
(4) "Manufacture" means the production, preparation, compounding, processing, encapsulating, packaging or repackaging, or labeling or relabeling of an imitation controlled substance.
Source: L. 92: Entire article R&RE, p. 373, § 1, effective July 1.
ANNOTATION
Legislative intent of "purported". The general assembly intended the term "purported", as applied in this section, to refer to the circumstances surrounding defendant's conduct. Based on the substance's appearance by a representation made and by consideration of all relevant factors as set out in § 18-18-421, a reasonable person would believe the substance to be a controlled substance. There is no requirement, therefore, that a defendant knowingly purport the substance to be a controlled substance. People v. Taylor, 131 P.3d 1158 (Colo. App. 2005).
Source: official Colorado text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado § 18-18-420
What does Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-18-420 cover?
Section 18-18-420 ("Imitation controlled substances - definitions.") is part of the Colorado Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Colorado. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Colorado § 18-18-420?
A common citation format is "Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-18-420" (Colorado). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Colorado law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Colorado official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Colorado attorney.
How does Colorado § 18-18-420 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Colorado can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Colorado.