A disturbing case of alleged child sexual abuse and potential corruption within the Colorado justice system has ignited public outrage. Retired Denver police officer, Michael Hawkins, faces accusations of raping his own daughter for years, starting when she was just five years old. He is also accused of sexually assaulting his two adopted daughters, children of his ex-wife.
Despite the severity of these charges, Hawkins is currently free on a $50,000 bond. Adding to the controversy, Hawkins is engaged in a custody battle for his two sons, ages 10 and 13, with his ex-wife, Rachel Piel Hawkins.
Michael Hawkins in court
Rachel, who currently has custody of the boys, claims the court-ordered reunification therapy is psychologically manipulative and harmful to her sons. She alleges that the therapy aims to coerce her children into having a relationship with their father, despite the serious allegations against him.
Her refusal to subject her sons to further therapy sessions led to contempt of court charges and a sentence of multiple weekends in jail.
In a poignant video posted on TikTok before reporting to jail, Rachel stated, “Corruption in the justice system is punishing me for protecting my children.” She bravely shared her story, highlighting the plight of mothers fighting to protect their children from abusive situations.
Rachel Piel Hawkins speaking about her experience
The court’s decision to order reunification therapy, despite the allegations against Hawkins, has sparked debate. Critics question the appropriateness of such programs when there are accusations of child sexual and physical abuse.
Adding to the complexity of the case, Hawkins has a history as a decorated police officer. He was one of the first responders to the horrific 2012 Aurora movie theater shooting, even carrying a child’s body from the scene. Hawkins’s daughter revealed to investigators that her father suffered from PTSD following the shooting, and the first instance of alleged abuse occurred later that same year.
Michael Hawkins at the scene of the Aurora theater shooting
The juxtaposition of Hawkins’s past heroism with the current accusations creates a deeply unsettling narrative. The case raises questions about the weight given to past actions, the potential for abuse of power, and the complexities of navigating family court when serious criminal allegations are involved.
The case is ongoing, and the legal battles surrounding custody and the criminal charges against Michael Hawkins continue to unfold. The outcome of this case has the potential to set a precedent for future cases involving similar circumstances, highlighting the need for a justice system that prioritizes the safety and well-being of children above all else.
