Sexual Assault on a Child is a crime charged in Fort Collins and Larimer County when a person is accused of having sexual contact with a minor. Another state recently passed a law that would require those convicted of a sex crime against a child to be undergo a chemical castration prior to leaving prison. According to the report, this medical intervention would be forced on anyone 21 years old or older who committed a sex crime against a child under 13 years old.
Larimer County Sex Assault on a Child Definition
The Larimer County, Colorado law definition of Sexual Assault on a Child –C.R.S. 18-3-405 – is:
Much like the Sexually Violent Predator designation has it’s own screening and set of criteria, an issue like chemical castration would be treated similarly, especially since not everyone convicted of the specific crime would qualify.
Issues with Chemical Castration on Sexual Assault on a Child Convictions in Larimer County
I completely understand the drive to protect children. But, studies show that sex offenders generally have a low rate of recidivism, meaning they don’t keep reoffending. I’m just not sure that this will actually get the desired result. It was stated in the article that lawmakers are hoping that by chemically castrating those who meet the standards, it will deter others from harming kids. This seems like the wrong approach as well. We have repeatedly continued to make sentences harsher and harsher when it comes to sex crimes. Colorado has indeterminate sentencing for certain sex crime convictions. This means that the person is sentenced to a minimum amount of time they must serve and then can be held indefinitely until the parole board decides if or when the person can safely be back in the community. And what about someone who was wrongfully convicted? It truly does happen. And for those who accepted responsibility are we, as a society, saying there is absolutely no chance of any rehabilitation?
If you or someone you love has been charged with Sexual Assault on a Child, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact the best criminal defense attorneys from the O’Malley Law Office at 970-658-0007 to schedule your free consultation or set up a jail visit to the Larimer County Jail.
Photo by Carles Rabada on Unsplash