Sexual Assault on a Child - Position of Trust

Sexual Assault on a Child by One in a Position of Trust is an offense in Colorado that involves sexual contact between a minor and an adult in a supervisory role. If a person is responsible for a minor’s health, welfare, education, or supervision in any way, they are considered a position of trust. Teachers, pastors, and coaches (to name a few) can all face especially severe consequences if they participate in sexual behavior with a minor. Hiring a skilled sex crimes attorney is absolutely necessary if facing charges such as these.

What is Sexual Assault on a Child – Position of Trust in Douglas County?

C.R.S. 18-3-405.3 defines the behaviors involved with Sexual Assault on a Child by One in a Position of Trust. This offense occurs when:

an adult knowingly engages in sexual contact (touching the breasts, buttocks, or genital area for the purpose of sexual arousal, gratification, or abuse) with a child under 18,
that adult is in any way responsible for the minor’s health, welfare, education, or supervision

It is important to note that both the adult touching the minor and the adult causing the minor to touch them applies to sexual contact. Additionally, any touching through clothing covering the private areas is considered sexual contact as well.

Sentencing for Sexual Assault on a Child by One in a Position of Trust in Colorado

Sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust is typically a class 4 felony in Colorado when the minor is 15, 16, or 17 years of age. Penalties can include 2 – 6 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections and a fine of $2,000 – $500,000. However, if the minor was under the age of 15 or the offense involved a pattern of sexual abuse, a class 3 felony applies. Consequences can include 4 – 12 years in prison and a fine of $3,000 – $750,000. Other ramifications of a conviction include:

Sex Offender Intensive Supervised Probation (SOISP)
Treatment overseen by the Sex Offender Management Board (SOMB)
Sex Offender Registration

Douglas County Sex Crimes Lawyer

Beyond incarceration, fines, treatment, probation, and registration, conviction of sexual assault on a child negatively impacts employment opportunities. It can also damage relationships with family and friends. Don’t face these charges alone. Contact a highly rated sex crimes attorney capable of prioritizing your best possible outcome. Finally, it is imperative that you not speak with law enforcement or investigators if contacted. Providing statements of any kind can damage your defense and also negatively impact your outcome.