The kidnapping of a young girl as she walked to school late last week began a massive search by police officers across northern Colorado that probably could continue over to the Weld County cities of Greeley, Berthoud, and Milliken. Hundred of tips have come in to the county Sheriff’s Department about her whereabouts. Deputies are investigating a tip from another kidnapping in Wyoming earlier this week to see if that case could help to solve this recent abduction.
Police Officers are not saying whether the two incidents are connected. They are releasing information about the suspect in the second child abduction and will undoubtedly speak with him about the disappearance of this girl. Police officers often assume innocent people may be guilty by association, based on the area the crime took place and other patterns. If the two cases are similar, the police may automatically assume that the same person is responsible. Whether or not it is true does not matter to the police. They may charge people with crimes simply to find a resolution for another case regardless of evidence
Police are genuinely searching for this girl, but may, in an attempt to assure the public that they are doing their job to keep them safe, become lax on details. When the suspect of the second kidnapping (CRS 18-3-302) is found, he will be interrogated and presumed guilty of both crimes by police. In an attempt to offer the community safety, police often rush to conclusions.
This happens for many crimes in Hudson, Berthoud, or Lochbouie. Just because someone was guilty of a crime in the past, does not mean they are responsible for the charges the district attorney may bring against them. Because they have a criminal record or have been convicted of felony or misdemeanor crimes in the past, does not mean they should become prime suspects in present cases.
If you are approached by police for Assault (CRS 18-3-204), Kidnapping (CRS 18-3-302), or Harassment (CRS 18-9-111) in Erie, Eaton, or any other city in Weld County, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact the experienced criminal defense lawyers at the O’Malley Law Office at 970-616-6009. Together, we can protect your future.