Written by: V. Wolf

A Denver judge has delivered a blow to the sexual assault allegations made against high-profile Democrat state Rep. Leslie Herod. The accusations, whispers and finger pointing, which surfaced on social media in 2023, had caused significant drama within the Colorado Democratic Party and cast a shadow over Herod's bid for Denver mayor last year.

However, the recent ruling from Judge Clarisse Gonzales has deemed the allegations made by Sheena Kadi, a prominent Democrat and current spokesperson for Colorado Treasurer Dave Young and the state Democratic Party, as not credible.

The judge's decision came after a thorough examination of the evidence and two days of testimony, focusing on a romantic encounter between Herod and Kadi that took place four years ago.

Kadi claimed that the encounter was non-consensual, but the judge found her claims to be lacking credibility on all the facts presented. A partial transcript of the hearing, provided by Herod's attorney to Colorado Public Radio and the Denver Post.

This legal battle began when Kadi sought a temporary restraining order against Herod earlier this year, alleging physical intimidation during an encounter at the state Capitol on the opening day of the legislative session. However, the judge not only dismissed Kadi's claim but also granted Herod a one-year protection order against Kadi, outlining limited interactions between the two in work-related situations.

In response to the judge's ruling, Democratic Party chair Shad Murib has called for Kadi's resignation from her position as the state party's elected vice chair for public relations and marketing.

In a written statement to Colorado Public Radio, Murib emphasized the clarity of the court's decision and labeled Kadi's persistent attacks against Democrats as a violation of the Colorado Democratic Party's code of conduct.

He further highlighted the fact that the court discredited Kadi's specific and serious attack against Rep. Herod, stating that it "defies common sense."

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It is no secret that Rep. Herod has faced criticism within political circles. Many who regularly interact with her describe her as a walking, talking toxic balloon. Herod, a termed-out House representative, has developed a reputation for conflict and non-collaboration under the golden dome.

It comes as no surprise to members of both sides of the aisle that she continues to engage in bitter fights with her failed mayoral campaign staff or members of her own party.

The judge's ruling in favor of Rep. Herod however delivers a significant blow to the credibility of the sexual assault allegations made against her by a fellow Democrat.