Two reported kidnapping incidents in Clear Creek County unfolded within 24 hours, with witnesses providing information that helped authorities locate the vehicles or victims involved. One case began near Georgetown and ended with a traffic stop on eastbound I-70; the other was reported the following day in Empire.
A Boulder, a Chase, and a Traffic Stop
The Clear Creek County Sheriff's Office said the first incident happened September 17 near Argentine Street and 15th Street in Georgetown. A driver reported seeing a man physically restrain a woman against a boulder and force her into a vehicle driven by another woman. The witness followed the vehicle onto eastbound I-70 and reported seeing the man assault the woman inside it.
Deputies and Idaho Springs police used the witness's reports to stop the vehicle at Exit 240 in Idaho Springs, according to the sheriff's office. Authorities took the man and the driver into custody.
Drugs Found in the Vehicle
Beyond the alleged assault, the sheriff's office reports the vehicle contained items consistent with drug distribution, along with drugs presumptively positive for methamphetamine and fentanyl. The man was arrested pending charges of second-degree kidnapping, domestic violence, and third-degree assault, while the driver faces a pending charge of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, the sheriff's office reports — a potential offense under Colorado's controlled substances statutes, according to the Colorado Judicial Branch.
A Second Incident, One Day Later
The second incident was reported September 18 in Empire. According to the sheriff's office, a woman told authorities that a man known to her had physically forced her into a vehicle. She escaped and hid, while witnesses who saw her running and apparently seeking cover tried to locate her and check on her welfare.
A deputy and Idaho Springs police responded, and the man was arrested pending a second-degree kidnapping charge, the sheriff's office reports.
Support for victims
People affected by incidents like these can seek assistance through Clear Creek County's Victim Assistance Program, which provides emotional support to crime victims and their families, referrals to community agencies and advocacy for victims' rights, according to the Clear Creek County Victim Assistance Program.
Charges Still Pending
Three people were arrested in connection with the two incidents, but final charges will be determined by the 5th Judicial District Attorney's Office, according to the sheriff's office. A separate report on the arrests appeared in Western Slope Now.
Authorities put it simply: “If you see something, say something.” In Clear Creek County the previous week, that's exactly what happened — twice.
