We live in a sad world when a person suspected of Sexual Assault on a Child would rather kill themselves than face criminal charges. Obviously, something isn't right in our criminal justice system if people are so afraid of a conviction they would rather commit suicide. But, that's just what happened earlier this month in Loveland. Let's take a look at this sad situation and learn more about Sexual Assault on a Child charges and how they're handled in Denver, Arapahoe, and Larimer County.

Man Suspected of a Sex Offense: Commits Suicide Instead of Facing Charges

According to the news, two Loveland police officers went to the work address of a man who was suspected of Sexual Assault on a Child. Upon their arrival at the address, they asked the man to step outside, where they told him about the accusations against him. The man's breathing allegedly became heavy, and he appeared to be greatly affected – possibly suffering a panic attack. The police officers became alarmed about his condition, so an ambulance was called. While they waited for the ambulance, the police continued to question the man, who tried to escape their questions by walking quickly away from them and then breaking into a run. The situation quickly escalated when one of the police officers saw the man had a gun in his hand. The police officers took chase and tackled the man, trying to wrestle the gun away from him. At one point, the man pointed the gun at one of the officer, but then he changed his mind and pointed the weapon at his own face. The police tried to get the gun away from the man, but he pulled the trigger and died at the scene.

Criminal Justice System Treats People as Guilty Before Trial

People charged with sex offenses are usually treated as if they are guilty.

While we don't know if this man was guilty of the accusations against him, it is sad to realize that suicide was a better choice to him than facing the accusations. If he had been charged, he would likely have been charged with Sexual Assault on a Child. This sexual offense, among others in Adams, Jefferson, and Douglas County, carries harsh consequences. A conviction could result in an indeterminate prison sentence to the Colorado Department of Corrections, sex offender registration, sex offender treatment, or Sex Offender Intensive Supervised Probation. And, before people are even convicted of sex crimes in the state of Colorado, they are often treated as if they are guilty. The mug shots of defendants in criminal cases are published by the media online and across social media. A person's life and reputation can be ruined before the prosecution even has all the evidence. And, if the accusations against them are found to be false, the media rarely prints a retraction. Even if they did, the damage has already been done.

You Need a Lawyer if You've Been Charged with a Sex Offense

If you've been accused by a child of having sexual contact, don't waste time – contact an expert sex crimes defense attorney immediately. The early involvement of the best criminal defense lawyer is vital to your case and your future. Your accuser will be backed-up by the District Attorney – you need backup. Don't despair if you have been accused – contact a hardworking defense lawyer who will fight aggressively to protect your future.

If you or a loved one has been accused of a sex offense, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at the O'Malley Law Office for a free consultation at 303-830-0880. Together, we can protect your future.