A person is justified in using reasonable and appropriate physical force upon another person when and to the extent that he reasonably believes it necessary to prevent what he reasonably believes to be an attempt by the other person to commit theft, criminal mischief, or criminal tampering involving property, but he may use deadly physical force under these circumstances only in defense of himself or another as described in section 18-1-704.
Source: L. 71: R&RE, p. 409, § 1. C.R.S. 1963: § 40-1-806.
Cross references: For theft, see part 4 of article 4 of this title 18; for criminal mischief, see § 18-4-501; for criminal tampering, see §§ 18-4-505 and 18-4-506.
Structure Colorado Code
Article 1 - Provisions Applicable to Offenses Generally
Part 7 - Justification and Exemptions From Criminal Responsibility
§ 18-1-701. Execution of Public Duty
§ 18-1-703. Use of Physical Force - Special Relationships
§ 18-1-704. Use of Physical Force in Defense of a Person - Definitions
§ 18-1-704.5. Use of Deadly Physical Force Against an Intruder
§ 18-1-705. Use of Physical Force in Defense of Premises
§ 18-1-706. Use of Physical Force in Defense of Property
§ 18-1-707. Use of Force by Peace Officers - Definitions