2016 Colorado Revised Statutes
Title 18 - Criminal Code
Article 15 - Offenses - Making, Financing, or Collection of Loans
§ 18-15-103. Presumption that extension of credit is extortionate

(1) The provisions of this section are nonexclusive and in no way limit the effect or applicability of section 18-15-102.

(2) In any prosecution under section 18-15-102, if it is shown that the factors enumerated in paragraphs (a), (b), and (c) of this subsection (2) were present in connection with the making of the extension of credit in question, there shall arise a presumption that the extension of credit was extortionate:

(a) The extension of credit was made with a loan finance charge in excess of that established for criminal usury.

(b) At the time credit was extended, the debtor reasonably believed that one or more extensions of credit by the creditor had been collected or attempted to be collected by extortionate means or the nonrepayment thereof had been punished by extortionate means.

(c) Upon the making of the extension of credit, the total of the extensions of credit by the creditor to the debtor then outstanding, including any unpaid interest or similar charges, exceeded one hundred dollars.

(3) In any prosecution under section 18-15-102, evidence of similar offenses tending to establish the existence of a plan, scheme, or design on the part of the defendant to produce a result of which the act charged is a part shall be admissible in evidence against the defendant. Such evidence of similar offenses, if known to the debtor, shall also be admissible in evidence for the purpose of establishing the reasonable belief of the debtor referred to in paragraph (b) of subsection (2) of this section.

(4) Whether evidence introduced under the provisions of subsection (2) of this section giving rise to the presumption that the extension of credit was extortionate is sufficient to establish the guilt of the defendant beyond a reasonable doubt, if such evidence is not disputed, is a question to be determined by the jury under proper instructions or by the court if no jury trial is had. Where there is evidence tending to show the innocence of the transaction, the issue of whether the extension of credit was extortionate shall be submitted to the jury, if trial is to a jury, unless the court is satisfied that the evidence as a whole clearly negates the presumed offense.