In a recent case that highlights the importance of protecting vulnerable children, a Grand Junction man has been sentenced to life in federal prison for the sexual abuse of two children. Michael Tracy McFadden, aged 51, was convicted of crossing state lines with the intent to engage in sexual acts with a minor under the age of 12, as well as transporting a minor with the intent to engage in sexual activity. As a long-haul truck driver, McFadden took the children on multiple trips out of state, where he repeatedly assaulted them. The victims displayed tremendous bravery in testifying against their abuser during the trial. Judge Christine M. Arguello handed down the sentence, ensuring that McFadden will never be free in any community again. This case serves as a sobering reminder that individuals who commit such abhorrent crimes against children will face severe consequences.
Summary
Conviction and Sentencing of Michael Tracy McFadden
Michael Tracy McFadden, a resident of Grand Junction, has been convicted and sentenced to life in federal prison for sexually abusing two children. The conviction came after a trial where the victims testified about the repeated sexual assaults that McFadden subjected them to over a span of at least six years. The guilty verdict was returned on November 14, 2022, and the sentencing was carried out by Judge Christine M. Arguello on March 6, 2023. McFadden’s previous state court convictions for sexual assault were overturned due to a speedy trial violation, leading to a federal investigation and rearrest on federal charges.
Background
Overview of the Case
The case involves the conviction and sentencing of Michael Tracy McFadden, a Grand Junction resident, for sexually abusing two children. McFadden, who was a long-haul truck driver, engaged in multiple trips out of state with the children and sexually assaulted them in both his home and his semi-truck.
Description of the Crimes
McFadden repeatedly sexually assaulted the children over a span of at least six years. The abuse took place in his home in Grand Junction and in his semi-truck in other states. The victims bravely testified at the trial, recounting the numerous instances of abuse inflicted upon them by McFadden.
Trial and Conviction
Testimonies of the Victims
Two victims testified at the trial, providing detailed accounts of the sexual abuse they suffered at the hands of McFadden. Their testimonies were crucial in establishing the guilt of the defendant.
Guilty Verdict
Following the trial, the jury returned a guilty verdict on November 14, 2022. The evidence presented during the trial, including the testimonies of the victims, led to the conviction of Michael Tracy McFadden for his heinous crimes.
Sentencing by Judge Christine M. Arguello
On March 6, 2023, Judge Christine M. Arguello presided over the sentencing of Michael Tracy McFadden. Considering the severity of the crimes and the impact on the victims, Judge Arguello imposed a life sentence in federal prison for McFadden.
Previous State Court Convictions
Overturned Convictions due to Speedy Trial Violation
McFadden had previously been charged and convicted in state court for sexual assault against six separate children. However, these convictions were overturned on appeal due to a violation of the speedy trial rule. This prevented any further prosecution in state court and led to a federal investigation into potential violations.
FBI Investigation
Federal Violations
Following the overturning of McFadden’s state court convictions, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Denver Division launched an investigation into potential federal violations. The nature and extent of McFadden’s crimes warranted federal involvement in pursuing justice.
Indictment by a Federal Grand Jury
In 2019, Michael Tracy McFadden was indicted by a federal grand jury for his crimes. The indictment served as the basis for his rearrest on federal charges, ensuring that he faced appropriate consequences for his actions.
Rearrest on Federal Charges
After the federal indictment, McFadden was rearrested to face federal charges related to the sexual abuse of the two children. This step was taken to ensure that justice was served and that he would be held accountable for his heinous crimes.
Statements from Officials
United States Attorney Cole Finegan
As the United States Attorney, Cole Finegan expressed his commitment to ensuring that individuals who preyed on innocent children are held accountable for their heinous crimes. He emphasized that the sentencing of Michael Tracy McFadden was a testament to their dedication to justice for victims of child sexual abuse.
FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge Mark Michalek
Special Agent in Charge Mark Michalek of the FBI Denver Division condemned the actions of Michael Tracy McFadden and emphasized the FBI’s commitment to prioritizing the safety of society’s most vulnerable citizens. He reiterated the agency’s mission to relentlessly pursue criminals who target children.
Investigative Process
FBI Denver Division Collaboration
The investigation into the case was led by the FBI Denver Division, which collaborated with other law enforcement agencies and organizations to gather evidence and build a strong case against Michael Tracy McFadden. Their efforts were instrumental in ensuring the successful conviction and sentencing.
Assistance from Grand Junction Police Department and 21st Judicial District Attorney’s Office
The Grand Junction Police Department and the 21st Judicial District Attorney’s Office provided significant assistance to the FBI Denver Division during the investigation. The collaboration between these agencies helped in securing the evidence and offering support to the victims throughout the legal process.
Project Safe Childhood
Background of the Initiative
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative launched by the Department of Justice in 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. It marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, as well as to identify and rescue victims.
Involvement in the Case
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, emphasizing the importance of addressing and combating child sexual exploitation and abuse. The involvement of Project Safe Childhood highlights the collaborative efforts of various agencies to protect children and bring perpetrators to justice.
Additional Information
Case Number: 19-CR-243
The case involving the conviction and sentencing of Michael Tracy McFadden is identified by the case number 19-CR-243. This information provides a unique reference for anyone seeking further details or updates on the case.
Video Statement from Officials
A video statement featuring U.S. Attorney Cole Finegan and FBI SAC Mark Michalek provides additional insights into the case, their commitment to combating child sexual abuse, and the significance of the conviction and sentencing of Michael Tracy McFadden.
Contact Information
For further information or inquiries related to the case, individuals can get in touch with Deborah Takahara, the Public Affairs Specialist, via email at deborah.takahara@usdoj.gov.
Archives and Legal Information
District of Colorado Main Office
The main office of the District of Colorado, which dealt with the case, is located at 1801 California Street Suite 1600, Denver, CO 80202. This reference provides contact details for anyone seeking information or assistance related to the District.
Stay Connected
Individuals can stay connected with updates and developments from the District of Colorado by following them on Twitter and Facebook. These platforms offer opportunities to receive timely information and engage with relevant content.
Archives, Budget & Performance, FOIA, Accessibility, Legal Policies & Disclaimers, Privacy Policy
For official records and information regarding archives, budget and performance, Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, accessibility, legal policies and disclaimers, and the privacy policy associated with the District of Colorado, individuals can refer to the relevant sections on the official website.
For Employees, Information Quality, Office of the Inspector General, No FEAR Act Data, Small Business
The official website of the District of Colorado provides specific sections for employees, information quality, the Office of the Inspector General, No FEAR Act data, and support for small businesses. These resources cater to the unique needs and interests of different stakeholders associated with the District.
Vote.gov, Español
The District of Colorado website features sections dedicated to Vote.gov and Español, offering access to information and resources related to voting and for Spanish-speaking individuals.
Have a question about Government Services?
Individuals with questions or inquiries about government services can find relevant information and assistance by contacting USA.gov. The website serves as a centralized resource for accessing government-related information and support.