By Mackenzie Bodell | Denver Gazette
A former El Paso County public defender accused of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old pleaded not guilty in the 4th Judicial District on Thursday.
Thomas Cushing, 26, was arrested Nov. 22, 2024, and faces one count of sexual assault against a child, according to court records. An affidavit for Cushing’s arrest indicates he met with the victim on two different occasions for sexual intercourse.
The document also states the victim told Cushing that she was 18 years old, but made it clear she was a high school student still living with her legal guardians.