Removing the identifying information on a gun
It is a Colorado class 1 misdemeanor to knowingly remove, deface, cover, alter, or destroy the manufacturer’s serial number or any other distinguishing number or identification mark of a firearm.
Possible penalties for defacing a firearm include:
- Up to 364 days in jail, and/or
- A fine of up to $1,000.1
This is in addition to criminal consequences, if any, for possession of a defaced firearm, Colorado 18-12-103 C.R.S.
Defenses to defacing a firearm
Defacing a firearm is a much less common charge than possessing a defaced firearm. However, if you are charged with doing the actual defacing, possible defenses include:
- You didn’t knowingly remove the serial number,
- The serial number was still visible,
- The serial number was worn down due to normal wear or tear, or
- The gun was found during an illegal search and seizure.
Call us for help…
If you or someone you know has been charged with defacing a firearm or with any other of Colorado’s firearms laws, we invite you to contact us for a free and confidential consultation.
One of our caring Denver Colorado criminal defense lawyers will get back to you promptly to discuss your case and the best possible defenses to defacing a firearm or your other specific charges.
We offer two convenient ways to reach one of our knowledgeable criminal attorneys:
- By filling out the form on this page, or
- By calling us at our conveniently located Denver home office:
Colorado Legal Defense Group
4047 Tejon Street
Denver, CO 80211
(303) 222-0330
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Legal References
- Before March 1, 2022, penalties included 6 to 18 months in jail and/or $500 to $5,000. SB21-271.