Sexual assault accusations are at an all-time high throughout the state of Colorado and the presumption of guilt is widespread. When a claim of unwanted sexual penetration or intrusion occurs in El Paso County, incredibly impactful criminal charges can result. In recent news, a groom allegedly sexually assaulted a bridesmaid from his soon-to-be wife’s bridal party just days before the wedding. Accusations of this nature require caution and skilled representation from an experienced sexual assault defense attorney.
Sexual Assault Charges in El Paso County
While some acts are more obvious when it comes to claims of sexual assault, C.R.S. 18-3-402 defines the elements of this serious sex offense. Someone commits sexual assault in Colorado Springs or Fountain if they:
- knowingly inflict unwanted sexual penetration or intrusion,
- on another person against their will,
- or when the victim is physically helpless and hasn’t consented
Common actions associated with sexual assault include behaviors like rape, forced oral sex, or penetration with a foreign object. Date rape accusations are also common where one party was too intoxicated to consent or changes their mind following the sexual encounter. It is important to note that the lesser offense of unlawful sexual contact applies to circumstances of unwanted touching, groping, or fondling, void of any intrusion or penetration by the actor.
Punishment for Sexual Assault Convictions in El Paso County
Penalties for sexual assault in Colorado Springs and Monument are serious and lengthy. This is a class 4 felony when the use of force or victim injury are absent. Conviction can result in up to 8 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections and fines of $2,000 – $500,000. However, with the presence of force, threats, or drugging, sexual assault becomes a class 3 felony in Colorado. This can as much as double the time in prison and substantially add to the fine amounts. Additionally, a conviction of sexual assault in El Paso County means required sex offender registration, years of supervised probation after incarceration, and sex offender treatment overseen by the sex offender management board (SOMB).
El Paso County Sexual Assault Defense Attorney
Sexual assault cases in Colorado Springs can be complex, sometimes hinging on the impressions of two individuals who see the encounter differently. Additionally, there may not be any witnesses who can provide an account of what transpired. Due to these intricacies, especially skilled representation from the best sex crimes attorneys is crucial. Perhaps the sex was consensual by law or you weren’t aware the other person was too drunk to consent. Nevertheless, contact our office for a free initial consultation where we will thoroughly analyze your unique circumstances and suggest next steps in forming a strong defense on your behalf.
If you or someone you know is facing sexual assault accusations in Colorado, be smart. Contact the strategic criminal defense attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-265-1950. Together, we can protect your future.
Photo Credit: Unsplash – Allef Vinicius