A former Colorado sheriff has pleaded guilty to allegations that he traded drugs for sex.

Our Castle Rock defense attorneys know that no one is immune to the ravages of addiction, regardless of socio-economic status, education or career. Those addictions are often at the root of many crimes. Rather than stiff jail sentences, often what our clients need is help to overcome their substance abuse issues. We fight aggressively to limit jail sentences and increase the probability of treatment instead, particularly for first-time offenders.

In this case, former Araphoe County sheriff Patrick Sullivan, who served from 1984 through 2002, is accused of a felony for possession of methamphetamine and a misdemeanor for solicitation of prostitution. Although he has entered this plea, likely to avoid a circus-like trial, there has not been any information released as to what the sentence might entail. Defense attorneys are aiming for probation, while prosecutors are gunning for jail time.

In sentencing a drug case like this, a judge will take several factors into account. The first of those is whether you have any past criminal history. That could increase your chances of jail time. The second is the type of drug you possess. These are broken down by “schedules.” For example, a Schedule I and II drugs are considered to be the most serious. Schedule I drugs are those with a high risk of dependency and no real legitimate medical use. Some Schedule I drugs include LSD, heroin and peyote. Schedule II drugs are those that are also considered to have a high dependency risk, but might have some legitimate medical use. These would include opium and methamphetamine, like what the sheriff is accused of possessing.

If it’s your first Castle Rock drug charge,  possession of one of these substances is considered a Class 3 felony. That means you could be facing between 4 to 12 years in prison, and up to a $750,000 fine. For a second offense, you could be facing up to 24 years in prison, with a fine of up to $1 million.

The individual who was accused of dealing the drug to the former sheriff, was sentenced to three years behind bars.

To schedule a confidential meeting with a respected Castle Rock Drug Crime Lawyers,  Please contact us online or call our office in Ellmann & Ellmann at (303) 814- 2600.