31-year-old man arrested on suspicion of statutory rape

Published on August 16, 2025

August 16, 2025

Melissa Chesmore, PRO

Weld County Sheriff’s Office

(970) 400-2809, Desk

mchesmore@weldgov.com

WCSO arrests 31-year-old man on suspicion of statutory rape after foot pursuit

[Weld County, CO] On Aug.15, 2025 at approximately 4:40 A.M. patrol deputies were dispatched to a sexual assault at a residence near Highway 34 and Weld County Road 47.5, in Weld County. The call indicated a sexual assault was in-progress and involved a 15-year-old female juvenile victim. Emilson Lopez-Mejia, 31, who is related to the victim, was later identified as the suspect.

Deputies responded swiftly to the call, but Lopez-Mejia fled the scene prior to their arrival.

Patrol and investigations worked diligently through the morning hours and into the afternoon attempting to locate Lopez-Mejia. Through a concerted effort of multiple units, the suspect was located, and a short foot pursuit ensued.

The foot pursuit ended with one of our K-9 units being deployed. Lopez-Mejia was taken into custody without further force and transported to the hospital for a medical clearance prior to being booked in to the Weld County Jail.

Lopez Mejia was arrested on suspicion of the following charges:

• Resisting Arrest-Misdemeanor

• Obstructing a Peace Officer-Police Animal, Fireman-Misdemeanor

• Statutory Rape - No Force - 15-17 With a 10 Year Difference-Felony

No further information will be released today. All charges are merely accusations, and a defendant is presumed innocent until, and unless proven guilty in a court of law. ###