At 2pm on Thursday, August 21st, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) authored a warrant for 26-year-old Colorado Parks and Wildlife Seasonal Ranger Callum Heskett after he allegedly lied about being attacked and stabbed at Staunton State Park.
The Staunton State Park Incident
Callum Heskett radioed for help at approximately 9:30am on August 19th, stating that he had been attacked and stabbed and that the assailant had fled on foot. He gave a detailed description of the attacker, claiming the individual was a white male, 6’0″, 200lbs, wearing a grey shirt and blue jacket.
JCSO deputies and numerous front range first responders rushed to scene, providing aid and beginning a search for the individual at the state park. 8,600 residents in the immediate area received a Lookout Alert from Jeffcom 911, and the county asked several schools and nearby citizens to remain in lockdown for safety.
JCSO SWAT and Drone teams were activated. The Colorado State Patrol SOAR and Aviation teams were deployed to the state park to assist. Rescue crews evacuated Haskett to a nearby hospital as the search continued. Two people of interest were detained and interviewed, but investigators determined both had no involvement in the incident.
Inconsistencies Emerge
Inconsistencies in Haskett’s story began to emerge as the investigation continued. Additional conflicting and questionable evidence raised concerns surrounding his allegations. After investigators conducted an interview with Heskett, his story was determined to be flawed and erroneous.
Officers arrested Heskett on August 21st, but he remains under the care of a doctor at the hospital. Upon his release, he will be transferred to Jefferson County Jail. He’s currently facing attempt to influence a public servant, tampering with evidence, false reporting to authorities, reckless endangerment, obstructing government operations, and 2nd degree official misconduct. His bond is set at $10,000.
The defendant is presumed innocent of all charges unless and until he’s proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
