Denver, CO criminal defense attorney David Lindsey discusses the most serious form of computer crime in CO. He explains that the most serious form of a computer crime arises when someone is charged in federal court, as federal sentences are typically much harsher than state sentences. Federal crimes are also investigated more thoroughly, given the government’s extensive resources. The federal government tends to prosecute cases such as hacking government computers or accessing a former employer’s systems, since these matters often involve interstate commerce and fall under federal jurisdiction. Being charged in federal court is far more serious than facing charges in state court. For this reason, when an investigation is underway, he makes every effort to engage with the investigating law enforcement agents. If it becomes clear that charges will be filed, he always aims to steer the matter toward state court prosecution rather than federal court, as outcomes are generally more favorable at the state level.
