Woodland Park mayor talks for first time since sexual assault arrest

For the first time since being arrested on charges of sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust, Woodland Park Mayor David Turley made his first public appearance at Thursday night’s City Council meeting.

Surprising some in the audience, Mayor Turley sat in his usual chair that he has occupied since 2012.

There were no comments about the arrest or allegations made during the meeting. Afterwards, Turley did answer a few questions without directly addressing the charges against him.

“This kind of thing is devastating. It’s devastating for me; it’s devastating for a community. Hopefully we can get it resolved quickly and move forward,” Turley said.

Turley has been ordered by a judge to not have contact with anyone 18 years or younger without the supervision of another adult. He says he plans on continuing his job as Mayor.

“I’ve been devoted to my community and I still am. I’ll take it a day at a time,” Turley said.

By city charter rules, Turley can remain as Woodland Park’s mayor pending the outcome of the criminal case against him.

Turley is expected back in court in a couple of weeks when official charges will be presented against him.