Fort Collins police say a local man is behind bars after a string of alleged sexual assaults, and they are worried he may not be the only victimizer in the story. Officers arrested the suspect on Monday, booked him into the Larimer County Jail on multiple sexual assault and assault counts with a crime-of-violence enhancement, and a judge set bond at $50,000. Detectives say the investigation is very much active and are urging anyone who was harmed or spotted suspicious behavior in the area to come forward.
Details From Police
In a Facebook post on Tuesday, Fort Collins Police Services identified the suspect as Tristan Blackwell (born Nov. 21, 1995). The agency reported that Blackwell was arrested on Monday and booked on several counts, including a Class 3 felony sexual assault, two Class 4 felonies, and a crime-of-violence enhancement. Investigators said they are running down leads and believe there could be additional victims. The post also noted that the court set bond at $50,000 cash or surety, according to Fort Collins Police Services.
The post reminds the public that “charges are merely an accusation and suspects must be presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.” Police released a booking photo credited to the Larimer County Sheriff's Office, and the county explains how booking information is handled on its jail site at Larimer County Jail. Both Fort Collins Police Services and the county jail provide additional case and custody details.
Police Seek Additional Victims And Tips
Detectives are asking anyone who believes they were victimized, or who witnessed suspicious activity related to the case, to contact the department's tip line at (970) 416-2825 or email [email protected]. Those who prefer to remain anonymous can call Larimer County Crime Stoppers at 970-221-6868 or send a tip through the online form on the Crime Stoppers website.
According to a city news release, the official tip line and anonymous Crime Stoppers channels are the best way to get relevant information to investigators. Instructions for reaching detectives and submitting tips are outlined by Larimer County Crime Stoppers and the City of Fort Collins.
Legal Process And Potential Penalties
The allegations against Blackwell have not yet been tested in court. Prosecutors and judges will determine which charges move forward and what the next steps look like as the case progresses through the legal system.
If Blackwell is convicted, the Class 3 felony count in Colorado carries a presumptive prison range, while the Class 4 felonies carry lower sentencing ranges. A crime-of-violence enhancement can increase those potential penalties. The exact ranges and possible enhancements are set out in Colorado law.
Support For Survivors
Officials also stress that anyone affected by sexual violence, whether connected to this case or not, can access confidential help. The Sexual Assault Victim Advocate (SAVA) Center in Fort Collins offers crisis intervention, advocacy, and counseling and can be reached at (970) 472-4204. Contact information and resource listings are available through the SAVA Center.
Larimer County provides victim-notification tools and additional support options through the sheriff's office. Details on custody status, notifications, and other services for survivors are posted on the county's jail site at Larimer County Jail.
