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Press Release

Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Member Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Sex Crimes against Children

For Immediate Release
U.S. Attorney's Office, District of Colorado

DURANGO – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Blair Root House, age 63, of Towaoc, Colorado, was sentenced to twenty years in federal prison for one count of aggravated sexual abuse and one count of sexual abuse against two different children below the age of 12.  The offenses occurred while the children were in his care at his home in Towaoc, Colorado. 

“Sexual offenses against children create harms that last a lifetime,” said Acting United States Attorney Matt Kirsch.  “While we can’t undo the harm and pain of these crimes, we have ensured that Mr. House will harm no more children while he is in federal prison.”

“The FBI and our partners work diligently to investigate and bring to justice individuals engaged in the exploitation and sexual abuse of minors. This 20-year sentence rightly holds Mr. House accountable for his actions while bringing a greater measure of security to the community,” said FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge Michael Schneider. “The FBI is grateful to our partners at the U.S. Attorney's Office for their efforts in this case and our shared commitment to protecting children.”

United States District Court Judge Robert E. Blackburn sentenced Blair Root House on October 5, 2021, for one count of Aggravated Sexual Abuse by Force in Indian Country and one count of Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child in Indian County.  The crimes took place between January 1, 2006, and December 31, 2008.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation.  Assistant United States Attorney R. Josh Player handled the prosecution of the case.

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Updated October 7, 2021

Topic
Project Safe Childhood