Sex assault on a child in Douglas County, Colorado occurs when someone has sexual contact with a child under the age of 15. Difference in age is a key factor in this sex offense. An age gap of 4 or more years makes the touching or fondling unlawful, regardless of consent. A 14-year-old can consent to their 17-year-old boyfriend in Colorado. However, the day that older person turns 18, the same sexual contact between the two is a felony sex offense. If you or someone you know has been contacted by police about sexual acts with an underage person, it’s time to speak with an experienced defense attorney.
Douglas County Sex Assault on a Child Law
Douglas County’s sex assault on a child law prohibits sexual behavior with children 14 or younger. CRS 18-3-405 addresses the specific details of this crime throughout Colorado. You commit SAOC in Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, or Parker if you:
- touch the breast(s), butt, or genital area,
- of someone under the age of 15 and are 4 or more years older,
- for the purpose of arousal, gratification, or abuse
This also includes a young teen touching your intimate parts. Even touching through or overtop of clothing applies to this offense. Should the acts go beyond groping and fondling to oral, vaginal, or anal sex, statutory rape charges can follow.
Penalties for SAOC in Douglas County
Sex assault on a child is at minimum a class 4 felony in Colorado. A conviction can lead to:
- 2 – 6 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections,
- fines of $2K – $500K,
- sex offender registration,
- costly evaluation / treatment
If the sexual contact occurs on numerous occasions (pattern of sexual abuse) or threats or force are used, SAOC becomes a class 3 felony. This can result in over a decade or longer in prison and even higher fines.
Defense Attorney for Child Sex Crimes in Colorado
Few allegations hold the same weight as those of molesting a child. The presumption of guilt is immediate and widespread. However, these cases sometimes aren’t what they seem. Perhaps the child is lying or exaggerating what actually occurred, the touching didn’t involve intimate parts, or was an accident. Nevertheless, contact our office for a free, confidential consultation with one of our skilled sex crime attorneys. We offer same-day jail visits, as well as affordable fees and flexible payment plans. Strategic representation is a reality for those facing child sex crime allegations in Colorado.
So, don’t talk to the police about sex assault on a child – talk to us. Sawyer Legal Group, LLC 303-265-1950.
Photo by Melissa Askew
