Groping or fondling another person without their consent is unlawful sexual contact in Colorado. The charge is also referred to as battery or sexual battery in other states. Unlawful sexual contact is similar to sexual assault, as it’s a forcible sex crime on another person.
If you or someone you know has been charged with unlawful sexual contact, it’s imperative you seek legal representation. You could be charged with a felony, which means possible time in prison. You will also be added as a sex offender to the Colorado Bureau of Investigations’ registry.
Defense Attorney for Unlawful Sexual Contact in Colorado Springs, CO
Grabbing or touching another person in a sexual manner could be charged as unlawful sexual contact. If you’re convicted, you may be burdened with expensive fines and possible time behind bars. Do what’s best for your future and call the attorneys at Law Offices of Clifton Black, PC.
Our defense lawyers at Law Offices of Clifton Black, PC have years of sex crimes experience including cases of unlawful sexual contact. We can fight for your rights in court utilizing our resources and knowledge. Call (719) 328-1616 now to set up a free consultation. Law Offices of Clifton Black, PC accepts clients throughout the greater Colorado Springs area including Fountain, Calhan, Peyton and Manitou Springs.
Overview of Unlawful Sexual Contact in El Paso County, CO
- What Constitutes as Unlawful Sexual Contact in Colorado?
- Penalties for Unlawful Sexual Contact
- Required Sex Offender Registration
- Additional Resources
What Constitutes as Unlawful Sexual Contact in Colorado?
Touching, grabbing or groping the intimate parts of another person or over the clothing of a person’s intimate parts without consent is considered unlawful sexual contact. The Colorado Revised Statutes Article 18 Part 3 states you commit unlawful sexual contact if:
- You subject them to sexual contact, and they do not consent;
- The victim is incapable of consenting or understanding what’s happening;
- The victim is physically helpless, and you subject them to sexual contact anyway;
- You impaired the victim by drugs or other intoxicants to commit unlawful sexual contact on them;
- The victim was detained in a hospital or in a law enforcement facility and you had supervisory and disciplinary authority that you used to coerce the victim to submit to unlawful sexual contact;
- You committed unlawful sexual contact on another person in the guise of a medical treatment or examination of the victim; or
- You induce or coerce a child under the age of 18 to expose themselves, or in engage in sexual contact or penetration with another person for your own sexual purposes
The term “consent” is defined as cooperation in act or attitude pursuant to an exercise of free will and knowledge of what is happening in that moment. A current or previous relationship isn’t enough evidence to constitute consent given. Submission under the influence of fear is also not considered consent in court.
Penalties for Unlawful Sexual Contact in Colorado
A first-time offense for unlawful sexual contact is charged as a class 1 misdemeanor. However, the crime is considered to be an extraordinary risk crime, which means the maximum sentence is longer than the standard sentencing. The maximum sentence for a first time unlawful sexual contact offense is:
- Up to 2 years in jail; and
- A fine of up to $5,000
The crime can be enhanced to a class 4 felony if the victim was compelled to submit by:
- Use of force;
- Drugs or other intoxicants;
- Intimidation; or
- Threats of violence
A felony-level unlawful sexual contact charge can result in:
- Up to 8 years in prison; and
- A fine of up to $500,000
An unlawful sexual contact offense could be classified as a violent crime if:
- You used, possessed or threatened to use a deadly weapon; or
- Caused serious bodily injury or death to the victim or anyone else
The term “seriously bodily injury” is defined as a bodily injury involving a substantial risk of death, serious permanent disfigurement, second or third-degree burns or protracted loss or impairment of a body part or organ.
If you’re charged with violent unlawful sexual contact, then your minimum prison sentence is five years.
A person can also be placed on probation for up to two years on a misdemeanor conviction, and up to four years on a felony conviction, asked to provide community service, complete a sex offender evaluation and complete recommended treatment and therapy, and participate in HIV and DNA testing. A person can also face significant risks outside of criminal punishments, including risks for future and current employment.
Required Sex Offender Registration
Another component to your sentencing is the required registration as a sex offender with the Colorado Bureau of Investigations (CBI). You will be obligated to register personal information as well as your crime on their registry for the general public to see. This could affect any future employers, housing opportunities and admissions into educational facilities.
Failure to register as a sex offender will also result in criminal charges. You will be charged with a class 6 felony for not registering in time, the consequences include:
- Up to 24 months in jail; and
- A fine of up to $100,000
Additional Resources
Sex Offender Registry – Visit the official website of the Colorado Springs Police Department to learn more about their sex registry. Access the database to look up sexually violent predators, multiple sex crime offenders, felony offenders and people who have failed to register with CBI in your general area.
Unlawful Sexual Contact Laws – Visit the official website of the Colorado Revised Statues to learn more about their unlawful sexual contact laws. Access their statutes to read the penalties and elements of the crime, as well as other relatable offenses.
Unlawful Sexual Contact Lawyer in El Paso County, CO
If you or someone you know has been charged with unlawful sexual contact, it’s imperative you seek help from a legal professional. Hiring an attorney can significantly increase your chances of reducing or dismissing your case. Find what you need today by calling Law Offices of Clifton Black, PC.
Our defense lawyers at Law Offices of Clifton Black, PC are skilled in representing people accused of sex crimes. We can mount a strong defense for you with our dedication and experience. Call us now at (719) 328-1616 to set up a free consultation today. Our legal team accepts clients throughout the El Paso County including Denver County and Arapahoe County.