Former Westminster Police Officer Pleads Guilty to Sexually Assaulting an Individual

Curtis Arganbright, 42, a former Westminster Police Department (WPD) Officer, pleaded guilty today in federal court in Denver, Colorado, to one count of violating the civil rights of a female in his care whom he sexually assaulted.

According to court documents, Arganbright worked as a police officer for WPD in August 2017. While on duty in the early morning hours of Aug. 24, 2017, Arganbright responded to a call of a theft at St. Anthony Hospital. After hospital personnel declined to press charges against the victim, Arganbright agreed to drive the victim home. During the transport home, Arganbright pulled off the main road and sexually assaulted the victim. Arganbright admitted that his contact resulted in bodily injury to the victim. As part of the plea agreement, Arganbright agreed to never again seek employment as a police officer and to register as a sex offender.

Arganbright was originally charged in state court and ultimately pleaded guilty to unlawful sexual contact and official misconduct. He was then sentenced to 90 days in county jail. 

“The Department of Justice will continue to vigorously prosecute law enforcement officers who abuse their authority and sexually assault vulnerable people in their care,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. 

“As federal prosecutors, our job is to ensure that justice is always served,” said U.S. Attorney Jason Dunn for the District of Colorado. “When we see an injustice, we will not hesitate to step in, particularly when it involves vulnerable people or those in positions of power.” 

“The FBI takes color of law allegations of misconduct seriously and we will vigorously investigate any public official who willfully deprives those we serve of their constitutionally protected rights,” said FBI Denver Special Agent in Charge Dean Phillips. “Law enforcement officers at all levels are given tremendous authority and the abuse of that authority is detrimental to the safety of our community. The FBI is tremendously grateful for the cooperation from Broomfield and Westminster Police Departments.”

Arganbright faces a maximum penalty of up to 10 years’ imprisonment. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for March 11, 2020.

This case is being investigated by the Denver Division of the FBI. The Broomfield Police Department also provided substantial assistance throughout the investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Bryan Fields of the District of Colorado and Trial Attorneys Maura White and Katherine DeVar of the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice.