In Weld County and Larimer County, allegations of Sexual Exploitation of a Child frequently involve the seizure of computers, laptops, cell phones, and external storage devices. Law enforcement agencies in Fort Collins and Greeley routinely confiscate digital devices when investigating suspected possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM).
Most investigations begin with a cyber tip submitted to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). NCMEC receives reports from major cloud and internet service providers such as Comcast, Verizon, Apple, and Google. These companies utilize automated systems that scan uploaded images against databases of known illegal material using unique digital identifiers called “hash values.” When law enforcement agencies across the country identify new illegal images in closed cases, those hash values are added to the national database. If a matching image is uploaded to a cloud service, a cyber tip may be generated and forwarded to local law enforcement for investigation.
Digital Forensic Searches in Colorado Sexual Exploitation Cases (C.R.S. 18-6-403)
After devices are seized, they are sent to digital forensic examiners for analysis. In cases charged under Colorado Revised Statutes 18-6-403, investigators typically use commercial forensic software tools such as:
- Magnet AXIOM
- EnCase
- Forensic Toolkit (FTK)
- Cellebrite UFED (commonly used for cell phone extractions)
These tools allow law enforcement to extract data, reconstruct timelines, recover deleted files, and analyze internet history. The forensic review process is often lengthy. It is common to see delays of six to twelve months before law enforcement completes its forensic report and submits findings to the District Attorney’s Office. If the District Attorney approves charges, an arrest warrant may then be issued. Because of these extended timelines, early legal representation can be critical. An experienced criminal defense attorney can begin preparing your defense strategy long before formal charges are filed.
What Images Are Police Looking For? CSAM in Weld County, Colorado Sexual Exploitation Cases
In Sexual Exploitation of a Child cases, investigators are searching for material that meets Colorado’s statutory definitions of:
Sexually Exploitative Material
This generally includes photographs, videos, recordings, livestreams, or any digitally reproduced visual material depicting a minor engaged in or used for explicit sexual conduct.
Explicit Sexual Conduct
Colorado law defines this to include acts such as:
- Sexual intercourse
- Sexual intrusion
- Erotic fondling
- Erotic nudity
- Masturbation
- Sadomasochism
- Sexual excitement involving a child
These statutory definitions are central to how prosecutors, defense attorneys, and courts evaluate evidence in these cases.
Is a Greeley Criminal Defense Lawyer Necessary for Sexual Exploitation of a Child Case?
Sexual Exploitation of a Child charges are felony offenses, and prison is a potential outcome in many cases. Sentencing exposure varies depending on the specific allegations, number of images, prior history, and other factors.
An experienced defense attorney can:
- Evaluate the strength of the forensic evidence
- Identify potential constitutional or search issues
- Begin mitigation efforts early
- Coordinate appropriate evaluations or treatment when advisable
- Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or sentencing alternatives
In many cases, proactive preparation during the 6–12 month forensic review period can significantly impact the outcome. Early intervention often makes a meaningful difference in bond conditions, plea negotiations, and potential sentencing alternatives.
If law enforcement contacts you regarding an investigation, it is important to exercise your right to remain silent and consult with qualified legal counsel immediately.
Experienced Defense Representation in Larimer and Weld Counties
With more than 35 years of experience handling complex felony cases in Northern Colorado, our office understands the legal, technical, and procedural issues involved in Sexual Exploitation of a Child cases.
If you’ve been charged with or are under investigation for Sexual Exploitation, 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 a free initial consultation. Together, we can protect your future.
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