(Golden, CO – February 20, 2020) Manuel Joseph Casias, DOB: 8-19-75, was sentenced yesterday to 23 years in prison for two assaults on his estranged wife in April, 2019. A Jefferson County jury found him guilty following trial in November, 2019. He was charged for two incidents and the cases were tried together.
On April 6, 2019, just before 2:00 a.m., Lakewood police were called to 12135 W. Nevada Drive on a report of a domestic violence disturbance. Neighbors reported loud banging and children screaming for help.
Police found the 29-year-old victim covered in blood and barely conscious.
The victim awoke to Casias banging at her door and cursing. He did not live with her. She was getting a divorce. He broke through the front door as she and their children, ages, 5 and 8, hid in the bedroom. He attacked her and as she tried to escape he slapped, punched, and kicked her. He slammed her head against furniture and into a reptile habitat causing a severe head injury. He then strangled her until she saw stars and began to lose consciousness. The children watched the assault, begging him to stop.
Casias left the apartment before police arrived, but was arrested a short time later when he tried to sneak back in, blending in with first responders.
On April 5, 2019 Casias had assaulted the victim at the same apartment. He was not allowed inside, but his mother had a key because she had helped with child care. His mother gave the key to Casias who went in and attacked the victim who was there with a friend.
In 19CR1311 (DOO: 4-6-19): He was found guilty of two counts of First Degree Burglary; First Degree Assault; Second Degree Kidnapping; Second Degree Assault; First Degree Criminal Trespass; Criminal Mischief; two counts of Child Abuse.
In 19CR1362 (DOO: 4-5-19): He was found guilty of First Degree Burglary; Third Degree Assault; First Degree Trespassing.
