The public defenders representing Aaron Thompson on charges he was involved in the death of his daughter may have a conflict of interest because their office has represented four potential witnesses in the current case, prosectors said today.
During a hearing in Arapahoe County District Court, prosecutor Bob Chappel said he plans to file a motion saying there is a potential conflict of interest. Thompson is being represented by Jim O’Connor and Mitch Ahnstedt.
The potential conflict of interest was one of several issues before the court.
Judge Mark Hannen gave both sides more time to respond to a motion filed by The Denver Post last week, asking the that the court unseal the 60-count indictment. Only the specific charges, which include child abuse resulting in death and assault with a deadly weapon, were released. None of the facts were made public.
The judge may decide at the next court hearing on June 22.
Thompson reported his daughter, Aaroné, who was 6 years old, missing on Nov. 14, 2005. He and his common-law wife, Shelley Lowe, were considered “persons of interest” in the case. Lowe died a year ago of a heart attack.
Aaroné’s body has not been found.
Staff writer Carlos Illescas can be reached at 303-954-1175 or cillescas@denverpost.com.
