Douglas County, CO – A judge with the 23rd Judicial District sentenced 46-year-old Richard Elliot Merskin of Highlands Ranch to 16 years to life in prison for sexually assaulting his underage daughter over a period of time.
On July 6, 2023, Douglas County deputies responded to a report of a sexual assault. Thanks to the quick actions of Detective Stephanie Dorrell with the Special Victim’s Unit, Merskin was arrested a few hours later.
On February 27, 2025, a jury found Merskin guilty of two counts of sexual assault of a child under the age of 15 by a person in a position of trust. Prosecutors were able to prove the assaults were a pattern of abuse. He has since been sentenced to prison. If released, Merskin will have a mandatory period of parole for 20 years to life on both counts.
Merskin was a minister at The River Church in Denver.
Sheriff Darren Weekly said, “Detective Stephanie Dorrell of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Special Victim’s Unit was instrumental in bringing this defendant to justice. Acting quickly upon receiving the initial report, Detective Dorrell conducted a thorough and compassionate investigation, ensuring that critical evidence was gathered, and that the victim was supported throughout the process. Her professionalism and attention to detail played a key role in securing this conviction and lengthy sentence. Her work reflects the commitment of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office to protect the most vulnerable members of our community.”
District Attorney George Brauchler applauded the jury verdict, saying, “this should send a message to child predators in Douglas County, and anywhere in our district, that your actions will not be tolerated. You will be caught and held accountable for your actions.”
