Colorado § 18-5-305 - Identification number - altering - possession.
Full text of Colorado Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-5-305 — Identification number - altering - possession., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 18-5-305. Identification number - altering - possession.
(1) A person commits the crime of altering identification number if, with intent that identification of an article be hindered or prevented, he obscures an identification number or in the course of business he sells, offers for sale, leases, or otherwise disposes of an article knowing that an identification number thereon is obscured.
(2) "Identification number" means a serial or motor number placed by the manufacturer upon an article as a permanent individual identifying mark.
(3) "Obscure" means to destroy, remove, alter, conceal, or deface so as to render illegible by ordinary means of inspection.
(4) Possession of an article on which an identification number is obscured is prima facie evidence that the person possessing it obscured the number with intent to hinder or prevent identification of the article, and that he knows that the identification number is obscured, unless, prior to his arrest or the issuance of a warrant for a search of the premises where the article is kept, whichever is earlier, he reports possession of the article to the police or other appropriate law enforcement agency.
(5) Altering identification number is a class 2 misdemeanor.
Source: L. 71: R&RE, p. 442, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 40-5-305. L. 2021: (5) amended, (SB 21-271), ch. 462, p. 3186, § 242, effective March 1, 2022.
ANNOTATION
Obliteration of number is probable cause for arrest and seizure. Upon discovery that the serial number on a piece of equipment had been obliterated, this is evidence that a crime has been committed and there is probable cause to arrest and seize the property incident to the arrest. People v. Mangum, 189 Colo. 246, 539 P.2d 120 (1975).
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado § 18-5-305
What does Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-5-305 cover?
Section 18-5-305 ("Identification number - altering - possession.") 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 § 18-5-305?
A common citation format is "Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-5-305" (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 § 18-5-305 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.