Former Denver cardiologist sentenced to 158 years in prison for drug use and assault on women

DENVER (KDVR) — On Friday, former Denver cardiologist Stephen Matthews was sentenced to 158 years in prison convicted of drugs and sexual assault many women he met on dating apps.

In August, Matthews was there convicted on several charges in reference to what prosecutors said was a pattern of alleged sexual assaults.

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Matthews will now spend 158 years in prison with consecutive sentences for each of the assault counts.

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Matthews’ first arrest was in April 2023 the woman accused him of drugging her on a date after they met on a dating app. Subsequently, many other women came forward with similar stories, citing a trial that included accusations from 11 women.

At the trial the prosecutor’s office claimed Matthews usually met these women on dating apps. While at his home, Matthews gave them a shot or drink, and soon after, the women suffered from major memory gaps. The prosecutor’s office said the attacks took place between 2019 and 2023.

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“This guy is one of the most prolific serial rapists in the history of the state of Colorado,” said former Denver District Attorney Mitch Morrissey.

The prosecutor’s office told jurors it had heard nearly 60 witnesses and about 500 pieces of evidence in the trial. Meanwhile, the defense stated that these large memory gaps would make it difficult to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt.

Ultimately, the jury found Matthews guilty on all counts except Counts 23, 24 and 25, which include assault – sexual assault by incapacity, sexual assault by physical helplessness, and involuntary sexual assault.

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