Former Denver cardiologist Stephen Matthews was sentenced to a term of 158 years on Friday after a conviction for the drugging and sexual assault of multiple women, all allegedly met via dating apps. During the sentencing, one victim encapsulated the traumatic impact of Matthews' actions, stating, "This wasn’t about consent. This wasn’t about sex. It was about control. He used his position and the title of former doctor to abuse trust with myself and others," as reported by KDVR.
In details that unfold like the darkest chapters of personal histories, testimonials from the trial outline agonizing experiences. "I am scarred by what happened to me that afternoon," a victim shared, according to 9News. The same source reports another victim describing a moment of sheer dread, "Do you know what it feels like when you genuinely, truly wonder if you're about to die? I do because of my attacker." Officially, Matthews was found guilty on 35 of 38 charges this past August in Denver District Court.
The courtroom also heard testimony from Matthews' family, advocating for his potential for rehabilitation and reflection. His stepfather notes that Matthews has been reflecting on his actions since his conviction, expressing hope for him to find a purpose beyond his sentence, as per Denver7. This sentiment seemed shared amongst Matthews' family, with his sister, who is both an advocate for women and a survivor of sexual assault herself, expressing faith in her brother's capacity to contribute positively to society.
In the face of calls for rehabilitation, the defense attorney, Cohen, requested "proportionality" in the sentencing and highlighted that Matthews' assaults never involved minors or his cardiology patients. According to Denver7, Cohen concluded his sentencing remarks by mentioning Matthews' cooperation with law enforcement and some of the victims' subsequent interactions with him as mitigating factors. Despite these arguments, the sentencing reflects a decisive response to a pattern of predatory conduct.
