If you or a loved one has been accused of Unlawful Sexual Contact in Greeley, Colorado, it’s crucial to understand the seriousness of the charge, what the law says, and what your legal rights are. Being accused of any sex-related offense can carry not just criminal penalties but also significant personal and professional consequences. Here’s what you need to know.
Weld County Unlawful Sexual Contact Attorney: What Is Unlawful Sexual Contact in Colorado?
In Weld County, under Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-3-404, Unlawful Sexual Contact generally refers to knowingly touching the intimate parts of another person, or forcing another to touch your intimate parts, without consent, and for the purpose of sexual gratification, arousal, or abuse.
This charge can arise in a wide variety of circumstances and does not require penetration or even removal of clothing. It can include over-the-clothes touching or other non-penetrative contact.
When Is Unlawful Sexual Contact Considered a Crime in Milliken?
In Milliken, Unlawful Sexual Contact becomes a criminal offense when:
- The alleged contact occurs without the victim’s consent, or
- The victim is incapacitated, asleep, mentally disabled, or physically helpless, and therefore unable to give consent.
The law also recognizes aggravated circumstances, which can elevate the severity of the charge. These include:
- Use of force, intimidation, or threats
- Use of drugs or alcohol to impair the victim
- The involvement of a weapon
- Prior criminal history, especially prior sex offense convictions
Lawyer for Unlawful Sexual Contact in Firestone: Penalties for Unlawful Sexual Contact
Depending on the facts of the case, Unlawful Sexual Contact may be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony in Colorado.
- Misdemeanor (Class 1): Punishable by up to 364 days in the Weld County Jail and/or fines.
- Felony (Class 4): When aggravated factors are present, it may be charged as a felony, carrying potential prison time of up to 6 years, mandatory sex offender registration, and intensive supervision under Colorado’s Sex Offender Management Board (SOMB) guidelines.
A conviction, even for a misdemeanor, can require registration as a sex offender, which can severely affect your ability to find housing, employment, or maintain relationships.
If you or someone you love has been charged with Unlawful Sexual Contact, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact the best criminal defense attorneys from the O’Malley Law Office at 970-616-6009 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Photo by Pixabay