People engaging in age-restricted conduct typically need to carry state-issued identification in case there are questions about who they are or the legality of their behavior. Alcohol, tobacco and numerous other mind-altering substances are only legal for those over a certain age to possess and use. Businesses that sell or dispense those substances usually check the identification of all customers.
Young adults who are old enough to go to college but not old enough to legally drink sometimes acquire fake identification. They may take a sibling’s driver’s license or buy a completely falsified identification card from someone they meet on campus.
They can then flash that identification at the employees working at a bar or restaurant to gain access and service. If employees realize that an ID is fake or if there are compliance efforts on any given night conducted by state law enforcement personnel, students with fake IDs could be at risk of arrest.
Using a fake ID is a crime in Colorado
It is illegal to attempt to purchase alcohol, tobacco or other controlled substances when under the lawful age to do so. It is also illegal to use falsified or stolen identification. Typically, accusations of using a fake ID lead to misdemeanor charges. Those charges may be in addition to any charges for possessing or attempting to purchase controlled substances.
However, if a student doubles down on their deception by lying to police officers about their age and identity, they may be at risk of more serious criminal charges. An arrest while enrolled in college can put both continued enrollment and financial aid at risk.
A conviction could also affect the student’s ability to obtain a job and adequate housing in the future. Background checks that show prior criminal activity can lead to businesses and individuals denying someone important life opportunities.
Young adults facing accusations of using false identification may need help preparing to defend against those charges. Parents often need to intervene by discussing the matter with the student and helping them obtain representation when responding to their pending charges. Supporting a young adult as they learn from a prior mistake can potentially help them move on from an error that might otherwise diminish their opportunities for years.