Colorado Springs Sex Crime Lawyer
Facing Sex Crime Charges in Colorado Springs? Get an Aggressive Defense Now
A sex crime charge in Colorado Springs can upend your entire life overnight. You are facing the real possibility of an indeterminate prison sentence, mandatory sex offender registration, and lasting damage to your reputation, career, and family. These cases move fast, and prosecutors in the 4th Judicial District do not wait around. Neither should you.
If you have been accused or are under investigation, attorney Aaron P. Gaddis at Colorado Springs Criminal Defense, LLC is ready to fight for you. Aaron has defended Colorado clients since 2006, first as a public defender and then in private practice, and has handled cases ranging from sexual assault to homicide through contested hearings and jury trials. Sex crime cases demand that kind of experience.
Call (719) 578-3344 for a free consultation. Every conversation is confidential.
On This Page
- Facing Sex Crime Charges in Colorado Springs? Get an Aggressive Defense Now
- About Colorado Springs Criminal Defense, LLC
- Why Choose Our Colorado Springs Sex Crime Defense
- Sex Crimes We Defend in Colorado Springs
- How Colorado Sentences Felony Sex Offenses
- Our Defense Process
- Consequences We Help You Avoid
- Areas We Serve
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Contact Colorado Springs Sex Crime Lawyer Aaron P. Gaddis Today
- Sources
About Colorado Springs Criminal Defense, LLC
- Defending Colorado clients since 2006. Twenty years of criminal defense work in El Paso County and surrounding courts.
- Free, confidential consultations. Get honest answers about your case before you commit to anything.
- Reachable 24/7. Investigations and arrests do not keep business hours, and neither does Aaron.
- Located at 10 Boulder Crescent Street, Ste. 301 in downtown Colorado Springs, a short walk from the El Paso County Judicial Building.
- Working knowledge of Colorado's Sex Offender Management Board (SOMB) standards and the local court procedures that shape case strategy.
Why Choose Our Colorado Springs Sex Crime Defense
Sex crime cases are unlike any other area of criminal defense. The stakes are higher, the stigma is immediate, and Colorado's sentencing scheme for these offenses is among the harshest in the country. Your defense attorney should understand both the technical complexity of these cases and the human reality of what you are going through.
- Constitutional rights come first. We protect your right to remain silent, challenge unlawful searches and seizures, and hold prosecutors to every rule. When we are retained during an investigation, we can intervene before charges are filed to keep you from making statements that will be used against you.
- You are a person, not a case number. Aaron P. Gaddis handles your case personally. You will always know where your case stands and what comes next.
- Trial experience in real courtrooms. Aaron has taken sexual assault and other serious felony cases through motions hearings and jury trials in the 4th Judicial District. Prosecutors know which defense attorneys are prepared to try a case, and that matters in negotiations.
- Local knowledge. Familiarity with the judges, prosecutors, and procedures in El Paso County District Court is a real advantage, and it is one you cannot get from a firm that flies in from Denver.
Sex Crimes We Defend in Colorado Springs
People contact us when they are facing some of the most serious charges Colorado law allows. Here is what we defend against, and what you need to know about each.
Sexual Assault (Rape)
Sexual assault under C.R.S. § 18-3-402 means knowingly inflicting sexual intrusion or sexual penetration on another person without consent, or when the person is incapable of consenting because of intoxication, physical helplessness, or a mental condition.
The base offense is a class 4 felony. It becomes a class 3 felony when force, threats, or drugging is involved, and a class 2 felony when the accused is aided by another person, the victim suffers serious bodily injury, or a deadly weapon is used or threatened. Every felony sexual assault conviction is sentenced under the Sex Offender Lifetime Supervision Act, meaning the maximum term is the rest of your natural life (see the sentencing section below). Adults convicted of felony sexual assault also face lifetime registration with no right to petition for removal.
Defense strategies focus on testing the accuser's account, the evidence of consent or lack of it, and any constitutional violations in the investigation. The prosecution must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt.
Sexual Assault on a Child
Sexual assault on a child under C.R.S. § 18-3-405 covers sexual contact with a child under 15 by someone at least four years older. A related statute, C.R.S. § 18-3-405.3, applies when the accused was in a position of trust and the child was under 18. Our guide to Colorado's age of consent explains how these age lines work.
Sexual assault on a child is a class 4 felony. It becomes a class 3 felony, sentenced as a crime of violence, when the case involves force, threats, or a "pattern of sexual abuse," which means two or more incidents against the same child. In May 2026, an El Paso County District Court judge sentenced a former Colorado Springs public defender convicted of sexual assault on a child, pattern of abuse, to 10 years to life in prison, followed by 20 years to life on parole and lifetime sex offender registration. That case shows exactly what is at stake and why an experienced defense matters from day one.
Note that a 2026 bill that would have eliminated probation for class 4 sexual assault on a child (SB26-111) died in the Senate Judiciary Committee, so an indeterminate probation sentence remains legally possible in some class 4 cases. Whether it is realistic in yours depends on the facts, the SOMB evaluation, and the strength of your defense.
Sexual Exploitation of a Child (Child Pornography)
Colorado prosecutes what most people call child pornography as sexual exploitation of a child under C.R.S. § 18-6-403. Producing, distributing, or possessing with intent to distribute sexually exploitative material is a class 3 felony. Simple possession or viewing is a class 5 felony, or a class 4 felony if the material includes video or more than 20 items. Procurement of a child for sexual exploitation under C.R.S. § 18-6-404 is a class 3 felony. Every conviction requires sex offender registration, and federal charges may also apply.
These cases turn on digital forensics. We challenge the validity of search warrants, the chain of custody for seized devices, whether the material meets the legal definition, and whether you knowingly possessed it at all. Shared computers, malware, cached files, and cloud accounts all raise real questions the prosecution has to answer. Where the case calls for it, we bring in independent forensic examiners.
Prostitution, Solicitation, and Commercial Sexual Activity With a Child
Adult prostitution and solicitation offenses are generally petty offenses or misdemeanors and do not require sex offender registration. Cases involving minors are a different world. Effective July 1, 2026, Senate Bill 26-015 renamed Colorado's "child prostitution" offenses "commercial sexual activity with a child." Pimping of a child, inducing a child into commercial sexual activity, keeping a place of commercial sexual activity with a child, and engaging in commercial sexual activity with a child are all class 3 felonies that now carry a mandatory prison sentence of at least the bottom of the presumptive range. Soliciting for commercial sexual activity with a child remains a class 3 felony; probation is still possible, but a jail term is required as a condition. The law also created a new class 3 felony for internet luring of a child when the purpose is commercial sexual activity.
Defenses in these cases often involve entrapment during undercover operations, lack of knowledge about the other person's age, and unlawful searches of phones and accounts. We examine every detail of how the sting or investigation was run.
Unlawful Sexual Contact
Unlawful sexual contact under C.R.S. § 18-3-404 covers touching of intimate parts for sexual arousal, gratification, or abuse without consent. The base offense is a class 1 misdemeanor, but it becomes a class 4 felony, sentenced as a crime of violence, when force, threats, or drugging is involved. Even the misdemeanor version requires sex offender registration.
Common defenses include consent, misidentification, and false allegations arising from relationship breakups, jealousy, or custody disputes. We also handle indecent exposure, internet luring, enticement of a child, aggravated incest, and failure to register as a sex offender.
How Colorado Sentences Felony Sex Offenses
Most felony sex offenses in Colorado fall under the Sex Offender Lifetime Supervision Act (C.R.S. § 18-1.3-1001 and following). Instead of a fixed number of years, the court imposes an indeterminate sentence: a minimum term set by the judge, and a maximum of your natural life. The parole board decides when, or whether, you are released after the minimum.
The minimum term depends on the felony class and whether the offense is a crime of violence:
- Class 4 felony (for example, sexual assault on a child with no aggravating factors): a minimum of 2 to 6 years, up to 12 years with aggravating circumstances, and a maximum of life.
- Class 3 felony sentenced as a crime of violence (sexual assault by force, sexual assault on a child with force or a pattern of abuse): a minimum of at least 8 years and up to 24 years, and a maximum of life.
- Class 2 felony sentenced as a crime of violence (sexual assault with a deadly weapon, serious bodily injury, or an accomplice): a minimum of at least 16 years and up to 48 years, and a maximum of life.
Where the offense is not a crime of violence, the judge may instead impose indeterminate probation of at least 10 years (class 4) or 20 years (class 2 or 3) up to life, with intensive supervision and treatment. Anyone released from prison on one of these sentences serves an indeterminate parole term of at least 10 years (class 4) or 20 years (class 2 or 3), up to life. Understanding where your charge sits on this ladder is the first step in building a strategy to move it down.
Our Defense Process
Here is what happens when you call us. No surprises, no runaround.
Step 1: Free Confidential Consultation
During your first meeting with Aaron P. Gaddis, we review the facts, explain the realistic range of outcomes you are facing, and begin mapping out a defense. You should never speak to police, prosecutors, or the accuser without your attorney. We will also tell you what to preserve (text messages, emails, social media, location data) and what not to do while the case is pending.
Step 2: Investigation and Motions
We dig into every piece of the prosecution's case. That means filing suppression motions to exclude illegally obtained evidence, interviewing witnesses, retaining independent experts where needed, and identifying constitutional violations. Claims that the accuser was too intoxicated to consent, that a confession was voluntary, or that a device search was lawful all have to be tested, not assumed.
Step 3: Trial or Negotiated Resolution
Our goal is the best possible outcome for your situation. Sometimes that means pushing for dismissal. Sometimes it means negotiating a plea to a non-registrable offense, or to a charge that keeps future registry removal on the table. And when trial is the right path, we are prepared to take your case before a jury.
Consequences We Help You Avoid
Here is what is realistically at stake in a Colorado sex crime case:
- Indeterminate prison time. As explained above, felony sex offenses carry a maximum of life in prison, with a minimum term that can range from 2 years to 48 years depending on the charge.
- Mandatory sex offender registration. Nearly every sex offense conviction in Colorado, including misdemeanor unlawful sexual contact, requires registration under the Colorado Sex Offender Registration Act. Adults convicted of felonies appear on the Colorado Bureau of Investigation's public online registry. Misdemeanor registrants are not posted online but remain on file with local law enforcement, which can release the information on request. A first failure to register is a class 6 felony when the underlying offense was a felony.
- Lifetime registration for the most serious offenses. Adults convicted of felony sexual assault, sexual assault on a child, sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust, or incest, anyone designated a sexually violent predator, and anyone with more than one conviction cannot petition to deregister. For other offenses, C.R.S. § 16-22-113 allows a petition after a waiting period of 20 years (class 1 to 3 felonies), 10 years (class 4 to 6 felonies), or 5 years (misdemeanors) following discharge from your sentence.
- Lifetime supervision. Indeterminate parole or probation, mandatory treatment, polygraphs, and residence and internet restrictions can follow you for the rest of your life.
- Loss of employment and housing. Registered status makes finding work and a place to live extraordinarily difficult.
- Family and reputation damage. An accusation alone can destroy relationships and standing in the community long before any conviction, and can affect custody and parenting time.
A word on timing. Colorado gives prosecutors 20 years to file felony sexual assault charges, and if the accuser was 15, 16, or 17 at the time, that clock does not start until the accuser turns 18. There is no statute of limitations at all for felony sex offenses against a child under 15, or where DNA identifies the suspect in a case reported within the limitations period. Felony unlawful sexual contact carries a 10-year limit, and misdemeanors 18 months. Old allegations can and do become new cases.
Areas We Serve
Aaron P. Gaddis represents clients facing sex crime charges throughout Southern Colorado:
- Colorado Springs and all of El Paso County, including Fountain, Security-Widefield, Cimarron Hills, Monument, Palmer Lake, Black Forest, Falcon, Peyton, and Manitou Springs
- Teller County, including Woodland Park and Cripple Creek
- Pueblo County, including Pueblo and Pueblo West
- Fremont County, including Cañon City and Florence
El Paso and Teller County cases are heard in the 4th Judicial District, Pueblo County in the 10th, and Fremont County in the 11th. Whether your case is in El Paso County District Court or one of the surrounding jurisdictions, we know the local landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does a Colorado Springs Sex Crime Lawyer Cost?
Your first consultation is free and confidential. Beyond that, fees depend on the charge and the work the case requires. A misdemeanor unlawful sexual contact case is a very different undertaking from a class 2 felony sexual assault defense that may need forensic experts and a multi-day trial. We will give you a clear picture of costs and payment options before you commit to anything.
Should I Talk to Police If I Am Accused of a Sex Crime?
No. Never speak to law enforcement without your defense attorney present. You have a constitutional right to remain silent, and anything you say during questioning can and will be used against you. Even if you are completely innocent, voluntary statements can be taken out of context or used to lock you into a version of events. Detectives in these cases often call and ask you to "clear things up." Politely decline and call us first.
What If I Am Innocent of the Charges?
False and mistaken accusations happen. They can stem from misunderstandings about consent, relationship conflicts, jealousy, or custody disputes. The critical step is getting an attorney involved immediately to preserve evidence, document your account, and, where possible, present your side to the prosecutor before charges are filed. Early intervention can prevent the worst outcomes.
Can Sex Crime Charges Be Dismissed in Colorado Springs?
Yes, though no attorney can promise a particular result. Charges may be dismissed for insufficient evidence, constitutional violations during the investigation, problems with witness credibility, or expiration of the statute of limitations. Every case is different, but a thorough review of the evidence and the discovery process is where favorable outcomes begin.
Will I Have to Register as a Sex Offender If I Plead Guilty?
It depends entirely on the offense of conviction. Any plea to an offense listed in the Colorado Sex Offender Registration Act requires registration, and for the most serious offenses that registration is for life. Part of our job in negotiations is to explore whether a resolution to a non-registrable offense is achievable, or, if not, to preserve your eligibility to petition for removal later.
Contact Colorado Springs Sex Crime Lawyer Aaron P. Gaddis Today
Every day you wait gives investigators more time to build their case. A sex crime allegation carries life-altering consequences, but a strong defense starts with one phone call. Get experienced criminal defense on your side now.
Colorado Springs Criminal Defense, LLC
Phone: (719) 578-3344
Contact Us Online
10 Boulder Crescent Street, Ste. 301, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Sources
- C.R.S. § 18-3-402, Sexual assault: law.justia.com
- C.R.S. § 18-3-404, Unlawful sexual contact: law.justia.com
- C.R.S. § 18-3-405, Sexual assault on a child: law.justia.com
- C.R.S. § 18-3-405.3, Sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust: law.justia.com
- C.R.S. § 18-6-403, Sexual exploitation of a child: law.justia.com
- C.R.S. § 18-1.3-1004, Indeterminate sentence (Sex Offender Lifetime Supervision Act): law.justia.com
- C.R.S. § 18-1.3-1006, Release from incarceration, parole: law.justia.com
- C.R.S. § 16-5-401, Limitation for commencing criminal proceedings: law.justia.com
- C.R.S. § 16-22-113, Petition for removal from sex offender registry: law.justia.com
- Senate Bill 26-015, Commercial Sexual Activity With a Child Offenses (effective July 1, 2026): leg.colorado.gov
- Senate Bill 26-111, Protections Against Child Rape (postponed indefinitely, March 18, 2026): leg.colorado.gov
- KKTV, "Former public defender sentenced in child sexual assault case," May 28, 2026: kktv.com
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