While it’s important to be vigilant about protecting the safety of children, in some cases, adults or children themselves may cross the line and falsely accuse a person of sexual abuse. Sexual abuse allegations and charges are incredibly serious, as they can result in:
- Lengthy prison sentences (or even indeterminate prison sentences in which a person is imprisoned indefinitely until the parole board has decided he should be released)
- Mandatory registration as a Colorado sex offender, which can be a lifelong punishment in the most serious cases
- Loss of parental rights over one’s own children
- Loss of a person’s reputation, family and career — even if the individual is ultimately acquitted of the sexual abuse charges
Colorado Sexual Abuse Laws
Colorado law (C.R.S. 19-1-103) defines criminal charges of sexual abuse as involving the use, persuasion, enticement or coercion of any child in the engagement in any sexual activity or conduct (or for the purpose of stimulating such activity). According to the law, sexual abuse is general term that can, more specifically, encompass the following sex crimes charges:
- Sex assault on a child, which is a class 4 felony (unless force or threats are used or there is a pattern of sexual abuse)
- Sex assault on a child by an individual in a position of trust, which is a class 3 felony (A position of trust can refer to a teacher, priest, coach, doctor, etc.)
- Sexual exploitation of a child, which is a class 4 felony
- Incest, which is a class 4 felony
Denver Sex Crimes Defense Attorneys At Flesch & Beck Law
While our trusted Denver sex crimes attorneys are skilled at aggressively defending the rights of the accused both inside and outside of the courtroom, we are also fiercely committed to helping our clients achieve the best possible resolution to their cases. To set up a free initial consultation, call us at (303) 806-8886.
