What charges does Thomas Steffens face?
Steffens faces charges of sexual assault, third-degree assault, and second-degree assault (strangulation) in Colorado, as well as attempted murder in Florida.
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News / Crime
Former Colorado Doctor Injured in Florida Shootout After Sex Assault Charge
A former Colorado neurosurgeon, Thomas Steffens, wanted on sex assault charges, was injured in a shootout with law enforcement in Florida after fleeing the state.
Key Insights
- Thomas Steffens, 72, was wanted on a warrant for a January sex assault in Grand Junction, Colorado.
- Steffens fled to Florida and was located by a U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force near Vero Beach.
- Steffens allegedly opened fire on task force members, who returned fire, striking him multiple times.
- A U.S. Marshal was shot in the leg during the exchange but was later released from the hospital.
- Steffens faces charges of attempted murder in Florida, in addition to the sexual assault charges in Colorado.
- Authorities plan to extradite Steffens back to Colorado after he faces charges in Florida.
- Steffens had a restricted medical license in Colorado due to concerns about his ability to practice medicine safely.
In-Depth Analysis
Thomas Steffens, a former neurosurgeon, became the subject of a manhunt after being accused of sexually assaulting a woman in Grand Junction, Colorado, in January 2026. According to reports, the victim stated she had a drink at a restaurant and then lost memory, waking up later in an unfamiliar bed with a man she didn't recognize. That man was later linked to Steffens.
Steffens fled to Florida, where members of a U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force located him. The situation escalated when Steffens allegedly opened fire on the officers, resulting in a shootout. During the exchange, a U.S. Marshal was shot in the leg, while Steffens sustained multiple gunshot wounds.
Steffens now faces a slew of charges in both Colorado and Florida, including sexual assault, third-degree assault, second-degree assault (strangulation), and attempted murder. The 21st Judicial District Attorney Dan Rubinstein stated that they intend to extradite Steffens to Colorado to face justice, but he must first face charges in Florida.
Prior to these events, Steffens' medical license in Colorado was restricted due to concerns about his ability to practice medicine safely. There were also previous reports in 2024 of Steffens drugging and sexually assaulting individuals, but those cases were hampered by uncooperative victims. The intersection of 12th Street and Commerce Avenue was closed down for investigation.
FAQ
Was anyone else injured in the shootout?
A U.S. Marshal was shot in the leg but was treated and released from the hospital.
What will happen to Steffens now?
Steffens will face charges in Florida first, and then authorities plan to extradite him to Colorado to face the sexual assault charges.
Why was Steffens' medical license restricted?
His license was restricted due to concerns that he might have a physical or mental condition that made it unsafe for him to practice medicine.
Takeaways
- A former Colorado doctor is facing serious charges in two states.
- The case highlights the dangers involved in apprehending fugitives.
- There are questions about medical license oversight and previous allegations against Steffens.
Discussion
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Sources
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