Lakewood, Colorado, Police arrested a local high school varsity basket ball coach after he was accused of sexually assaulting a student. According to the Denver Post, the Lakewood Police Department arrested the coach after they were made aware of allegations of an inappropriate sexual relationship between the coach and a student over a two year period. The coach faces alleged charges of: sexual assault on a child by a person of trust (Class 3 felony), sexual assault on a child by a person in a position of trust with a pattern (Class 3 felony), and sexual exploitation of a child, also a felony.
Sexual assaults of this nature typically have Colorado Indeterminate Sentencing, with a set minimum sentence and no maximum sentence – which essentially can result in life in prison. In the event a person does get out of prison, they may likely have lifetime parole. Indeterminate Prison sentences in Colorado are particularly harsh, because the Colorado Department of Corrections gets to decide when to release the inmate. With political considerations frequently guiding the Colorado Parole Board, an inmate’s release will not be quick.
If convicted of these charges, the coach may face many consequences apart from prison. For example, sex offenders must register with the local police agency and their name will often end up on the internet. Additionally, sex offenders have a difficult time finding employment opportunities. There is little or no possibility a sex offender will be employable as a coach at the high school level. Sexual assault on a child is considered a serious crime, even impacting contact with an offender’s own children. For more information on sex offenses, look at our page on Sexual Assault charges.
False accusations in Colorado sexual offenses are not uncommon. Additionally, police will overcharge defendants in the majority of our cases. If you find yourself accused of a serious offense, you need an aggressive full-time criminal defense lawyer. You need someone who will take a personal interest in your case and fight for you. If you or a loved one has been contacted by the police, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact O’Malley Law Office P.C. at 303-731-0719, to set up an initial consultation. Together, we can protect your future.