Child sex assault in Douglas County, Colorado is a very serious allegation. This offense can come with lifetime punishments and a presumption of guilt matched by no other crime. The inability to be around any minors often follows an arrest, preventing a defendant’s ability to have contact with even their own children at first. If you’re being accused of molesting a child under the age of 15 in Colorado, seeking determined representation is a must. Below we discuss SAOC in further detail and steps to take towards the best possible outcome.
Douglas County Sexual Assault on a Child Law
Douglas County’s sexual assault on a child law prohibits touching a young person’s intimate parts. CRS 18-3-405 provides the definitions of this offense throughout the state of Colorado. You commit child sex assault in Parker, Castle Rock, or Highlands Ranch if you:
- touch the breast(s), butt, or genital area,
- of someone 14 or younger,
- for the purpose of sexual arousal, gratification, or abuse,
- AND are 4 or more years older than the child
This can apply to knowingly touching the clothes covering these private parts as well. Having the victim touch your intimate parts is also sexual assault. It is important to note that consent is irrelevant when these age parameters exist between the actor and victim. Furthermore, if you hold a position of trust in relation to the minor, the age rises to 17 or younger, no difference in age applies, and harsher penalties come into play.
Consequences of Sexual Assault on a Child in Douglas County
Each SAOC case is different. Child sex assault is at minimum a class 4 felony in Colorado. A conviction can result in:
- up to 6 years in prison,
- fines of $2K – $500K,
- sex offender intensive supervised probation,
- sex offender registration,
- evaluation / treatment
However, this offense elevates to a a class 3 felony with even more difficult ramifications if the sexual contact occurs more than once or threats or force are used. Defendants spend thousands of dollars on polygraphs, treatment, and supervision as they navigate the terms and conditions of their sentence.
Douglas County Sex Crimes Attorney
Securing an experienced defense attorney is crucial when it comes to child sex assault accusations. So much is on the line and you can’t afford to not have the best attorney by your side. Whether you’re being falsely accused or there’s a level of culpability, choose a criminal lawyer with decades of experience navigating these charges in Colorado. Contact our office to schedule a free consultation with one of our skilled sex crimes attorneys. We offer same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans for those facing allegations throughout Colorado.
If you or someone you know is being accused of sexually assaulting a child, be smart. Contact the strategic attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-265-1950. Don’t talk to the police – talk to us.
Photo by Jamie Street