Sexual Assault On A Child

Sexual assault of a child may be one of the most common and prosecutable sex crimes in Colorado Springs. Aggravated sexual assault of a child is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison a $10,000 fine, and mandatory lifetime registration as a sex offender.

Understanding Sexual Assault on a Child in Colorado

In Colorado, sexual assault on a child is a serious criminal charge. To secure a conviction, the state must prove that the accused knowingly and intentionally engaged in sexual acts with a child. Unlike many other crimes, prosecutors do not have to show that the sexual activity was non-consensual—because under the law, a child is legally incapable of consenting.

This strict standard can lead to troubling outcomes. Colorado law imposes no statute of limitations on sexual assault charges involving children under 18. That means an accusation can result in prosecution many years—even decades—after the alleged incident took place.

It’s also important to understand the different ways the law defines sexual abuse of children. For example:• Exposing a child to adult sexual acts or explicit language—including showing them pornography or involving them in the creation of pornographic material—is itself considered sexual abuse.• Non-contact offenses such as sexualized touching or compelling a child to touch another’s genitals also qualify as sexual assault under Colorado law.

The Impact of a Conviction

A conviction for sexual assault on a child nearly always leads to severe consequences, including long prison sentences, lifetime sex offender registration, and mandatory treatment or counseling as part of the sentence. This is not only punishment but also part of Colorado’s effort to reduce the likelihood of future offenses.

The Complex Reality

Research shows most people who sexually abuse children are primarily attracted to adults—dispelling a common myth that all child abusers are exclusively interested in minors. Many who struggle with unhealthy attractions never commit a crime, and many child sexual abuse cases involve individuals exploiting children for broader sexual purposes, such as the creation or distribution of child pornography.

Moreover, patterns of exploitation often place abused children in environments where they are further victimized, sometimes coerced into prostitution or other forms of sexual exploitation as teens.

Why You Need Skilled Legal Representation

With the stakes so high—and the law so strict—it’s absolutely critical to have an experienced, aggressive defense attorney if you are accused of sexual assault on a child. Even an unproven allegation can destroy reputations, careers, and families.

If you’re facing these life-changing accusations, don’t wait. Contact McClintock Criminal Defense, P.C. today. Our team has the knowledge, experience, and determination to protect your rights and build the strongest possible defense