Sexual assault on a child by a position of trust is a crime in Colorado that involves sexual contact between a minor under 18 and specific adults. Even if consent occurs, someone in charge of a teenager’s supervision in any way cannot have sexual contact with the juvenile. Denver’s coaches, pastors, and teachers are more obvious position of trust roles, but the term applies to a wide range of guardians and those tasked with supervision of young people. It is imperative in Colorado that anyone accused of sex assault as a position of trust seek experienced representation right away.
Denver Sexual Assault by a Position of Trust Law
Denver’s sexual assault by a position of trust law prohibits sexual contact between students under 18 and specific adults. CRS 18-3-405.3 defines the specific violations throughout the state of Colorado. You commit this offense in Denver, Cherry Creek, or Park Hill if you:
- touch the private parts of someone 17 or younger (or have them touch yours),
- AND are in any way responsible for that young person’s health, education, welfare, or supervision
The most common roles defined as a position of trust include pastors, counselors, teachers, school employees, doctors, parents, step-parents, and parents of friends. While these positions often interact closely with Colorado’s teenagers, it is important that both parties understand the devastating ramifications of these relationships going too far.
Penalties for Position of Trust Sex Assault in Colorado
Each sexual assault on a child case is different. Therefore, the consequences of conviction are as well. As a position of trust, sexual assault on a child is at minimum a class 4 felony. However, this only applies if the victim was between 15 – 17 years of age and the sexual contact occurred once. When the victim was under the age of 15 or a pattern of abuse applies, a class 3 felony can result. Defendants can face an indeterminate sentence, years in prison, thousands of dollars in fines, and are required to register as a sex offender. Additionally, evaluation / treatment are required and sex offender intensive supervised probation applies after incarceration.
Denver Child Sex Crime Attorney
It is essential that allegations of sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust are handled with an experienced child sex crime attorney by your side. Too many innocent people spend years in prison and on strict supervision in these cases. Your freedom, career, family, and future are all in jeopardy when sexual assault accusations exist and the next step is to consult a strategic defense attorney. Perhaps intimate parts weren’t involved or the contact was an accident. Nevertheless, exercise your right to remain silent and contact our law office for a free, confidential consultation.
If you or someone you know is facing a sexual assault allegation as a position of trust, be smart. Contact the experienced sex crime attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-731-0719. Together, we can protect your future.
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