Sexual assault of any kind is horrific. Aggravated sexual assault can be especially traumatic because of the severity of the abuse.
According to the Colorado Revised Statute, aggravated sexual assault is a sexual assault that involves certain circumstances that make the assault especially harmful. Aggravated assault can result when harmful tactics, including violence, are used to commit the offense; if the assault was directed toward an individual because of their race, religion, or social class; or if there was a specific level of intent behind the offense.
Cases of aggravated assault typically involve a level of violence. Examples of aggravated assault offenses can include:
The use of a deadly weapon during the assault
An assault where a victim becomes permanently disfigured
An assault targeted at a judge or officer of the court
A violent sexual assault
Vehicular assault causing serious bodily injury
As with other violent offenses, a charge of aggravated assault carries with it longer prison times and steeper fines, resulting in a criminal record that could severely impact an abuser’s life. A charge of aggravated assault could impact an individual’s chances of finding gainful employment, applying for loans, renting out housing, and other critical life choices.