Colorado Springs police make arrest in 2001 sexual assault case

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colorado (KRDO) — In early 2001, the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) received a 911 call about the sexual assault of a 20-year-old woman by an unknown assailant in her apartment in the 5900 block of Vista Ridge Point.

An investigation was launched and evidence was collected. According to CSPD, DNA from an unknown male was found and a DNA profile was created. Attempts to identify the unknown suspect were unsuccessful and the case was closed because there were no further leads to follow up on.

In early 2024, the Domestic Violence/Adult Sexual Assault Unit (DV/ASA) was notified that a possible DNA match had been found using the National Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) to evidence collected in 2001.

According to CSPD, investigators from the DV/ASA Unit contacted 41-year-old Kenneth Hettle in June 2024. Subsequent investigation revealed that his DNA matched the DNA of the unknown male suspect seized in 2001. Hettle was arrested for sexual assault, burglary and false imprisonment.

The victim of this sexual assault waited 23 years for her attacker to be identified.

After years of analysis, hard work and determination, the CSPD says they are proud to be able to make this arrest and provide some answers to the survivor of this crime.

Anyone with information or who may be a witness to this investigation is asked to call Colorado Springs Police at (719) 444-7000. If you prefer to remain anonymous, you may also call the Crime Stoppers Tip Line at (719) 634-STOP (7867) or 1-800-222-8477.

If you or someone you know is or has been a victim of sexual assault, know that help is available. CSPD understands that many victims may not find themselves in a position to immediately and safely seek help. CSPD will be there for you when the time is right for your particular situation. If you would like to utilize non-police resources regarding a sexual assault, TESSA offers many options, including counseling, medical evaluation resources, and more.