Swetsville Zoo Family Member Accused In Sex Assault Case

FORT COLLINS, Colo. (CBS4)- The son of the creator of the Swetsville Zoo in Larimer County said he is innocent of accusations that he inappropriately touched teenage girls.

James Swets is accused of five counts of sexual assault on a child. Investigators said the victims are seven teenage girls.

Swets is also accused of trying to entice teens with alcohol and cigarettes over the past two years.

Swets is the son of the creator of the popular family attraction. His attorney said the family name is drawing unfair attention to the case.

"I can't say anything except that the poor family has been persecuted. They've been humiliated and it is supposed to be innocent until proven guilty," said Defense Attorney Elaine Lukic.

Bill Swets, the metal sculptor, was at Thursday's hearing for his son. Neither man would comment as they left court.

Swets is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on Dec. 8. That's when prosecutors will try to convince a judge there is enough evidence to send the case to trial.