This week, justice was secured for victims after the sentencing of 63-year-old Richard Vasquez, bringing a measure of closure for a victim and their family following a lengthy and difficult investigation.
The case began on July 25, 2025, when a representative from the Department of Human Services reported allegations of sexual assault involving a child.
Detectives from the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Unit immediately launched an investigation into 63-year-old Richard Vasquez, focusing on incidents which occurred in the 7000 block of Notre Way in unincorporated El Paso County.
During the course of the investigation, detectives determined Vasquez had access to multiple children in the Pikes Peak region and identified the potential for additional victims.
Authorities also confirmed that Vasquez has ties to Tularosa, New Mexico, and launched an awareness campaign in partnership with media outlets throughout the state to raise awareness of the case.
On October 23, 2025, Vasquez was arrested and booked into the El Paso County Jail on multiple charges, including Sexual Exploitation of a Child, Sexual Assault of a Child, Unlawful Sexual Contact, and Sexual Assault on a Child by One in a Position of Trust.
On April 6, 2026, Vasquez entered a plea agreement for Sexual Assault on a Child by One in a Position of Trust, and Pattern of Abuse, and was subsequently classified as a habitual sex offender.
Because the victim was under 14 at the time of the offense, sentencing was indeterminate under Colorado law.
Following emotional testimony from the victim and their family, as well as the findings of court-ordered evaluations, the judge declared Vasquez a “Sexually Violent Predator”.
He was sentenced to life in the Colorado Department of Corrections, with parole eligibility after 16 years, followed by 20 years of mandatory parole.
“This sentence reflects the severity of the crimes committed and prioritizes the safety of our community,” said El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal. “Most importantly, it represents justice for the victim, whose courage throughout this process has been extraordinary.”
During the trial, Investigators noted Vasquez had a prior conviction in 1987 for sexually assaulting another juvenile, further underscoring the danger he posed.
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to protecting children and holding violent criminals who prey on the most vulnerable accountable. Anyone with additional information or who believes they may be a victim is encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Office.