In recent news, a former Highlands Ranch teacher and basketball coach is facing multiple counts of Sexual Assault on a Child charges, as well as another sex offense against children. This happens all the time in Larimer, Boulder, and Jackson County these days. Whenever we read headlines blaring the latest scandal, it is wise to stop and realize that the accused person hasn’t been convicted yet. Let’s take a look at this situation, and the crimes the coach has been charged with.
What is Sexual Assault on a Child?
The coach has been charged formally with Sexual Assault on a Child by One in a Position of Trust. This form of Sexual Assault on a Child charges is used specifically when a person who is in a position of authority (such as a teacher, coach, daycare provider, etc.) commits sexual assault against a child. The statute – C.R.S. 18-3-405.3 states:
“Any actor who knowingly subjects another not his or her spouse to sexual contact commits sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust if the victim is a child less than eighteen years of age and the actor committing the offense is one in a position of trust with respect to the victim.”
“Sexual contact” is the knowing touching of a person’s intimate parts (or of the clothing covering the intimate parts), if the contact is for sexual gratification, abuse, or arousal.
What is the Sentence for Sexual Assault on a Child?
Sexual Assault on a Child is a class 4 felony in Fort Collins, Loveland, and Estes Park, while the “position of trust” form is a class 3 felony. Regardless of the severity, both these crimes are subject to indeterminate sentencing, which mean there will be no upper limit to how long a person will remain in the Colorado Department of Corrections. Release from prison is dependent on a decision of the Colorado Parole Board, and completion of sex offender treatment overseen by the Colorado Sex Offender Management Board (SOMB). Unfortunately, there is a shortage of treatment providers in DOC. A separate consequence is that any person convicted of Sexual Assault on a Child will be required to register as a sex offender.
Take Sexual Assault on a Child Charges Seriously
The consequences of a conviction of Sexual Assault on a Child are enormous and life-changing. If you are convicted, you could spend the rest of your life in prison, go through harsh treatment, and be required to register as a sex offender. If you are facing Sexual Assault on a Child charges, don’t put your future in the hands of an overworked lawyer who is handling divorces, bankruptcy, and many other types of law. The criminal defense attorneys at the O’Malley Law Office practice 100% criminal law. We know the consequences you face with a conviction of Sexual Assault on a Child. Contact us for a free consultation today to discuss a plan for your defense.