A Longmont man has been sentenced to 20 years in prison following a plea deal related to the sexual assault of a child during a sleepover in Longmont. Mitchal Phillips, 29, was sentenced Friday after admitting to sexual exploitation of a child – induce or entice; and second-degree assault resulting in serious bodily injury. The plea deal resulted in the dismissal of a charge of child sexual assault by a person in a position of trust and a habitual offender enhancement. The sentencing includes ten years in prison for the sexual exploitation charge, followed by an additional ten years of sex offender intensive supervision, and a one-year work release period for the second-degree assault causing serious bodily injury. Deputy District Attorney Trish Mittelstadt emphasized the just outcome, stating, "This was a just outcome given the facts of the case and the defendant’s history. In coming forward and working with law enforcement and our office, the child victim showed courage and strength beyond her years."

Phillips’ prior criminal record is significant; he was previously convicted of first-degree sexual assault, making him a registered sex offender at the time of his arrest. The incident occurred on June 30th, around 1 a.m., during a sleepover hosted in Longmont where two children from Boulder were present. Phillips allegedly woke one of the children from her room and brought her to the living room couch. He then removed her clothing and engaged in inappropriate physical contact, later instructing her to "keep this our little secret." Approximately two hours later, Phillips attempted to touch the child again, but she firmly rejected his advances. The child immediately reported the assault to authorities, leading to Phillips’ swift apprehension at his workplace, Longs Peak Hospital. Initial investigations revealed that Phillips had expressed remorse for the assault via text messages and admitted to being with a child at 1 a.m., attempting to conceal the incident. "

According to the police affidavit, Phillips’ defense attempted to portray his actions as an attempt to educate the victim on how to respond during a sexual assault situation, a claim that authorities refuted. The case highlights the devastating consequences of child sexual abuse and underscores the importance of reporting such crimes. Law enforcement’s rapid response and the child’s bravery in coming forward were crucial in securing a conviction and ensuring accountability. The sentencing reflects the severity of the offense and the potential harm inflicted upon the victim. This case serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and support for victims of sexual assault, as well as the crucial role of law enforcement in protecting vulnerable children. The legal proceedings demonstrated a commitment to justice and the protection of children within the community. "

Moving forward, resources and support systems for victims of sexual abuse remain paramount, alongside continued efforts to prevent such crimes from occurring. The defendant’s actions represent a profound betrayal of trust and a serious violation of the law, and the community can take solace in the fact that justice has been served. Authorities continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of children, reinforcing the commitment to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions. This case also demonstrates the dedication of the legal system to ensuring a safe environment for all children, emphasizing the importance of reporting suspected abuse and providing support to victims. "