Castle Rock, Colo. — A Douglas County jury has found 39-year-old Zebediah Joseph Scales guilty on four counts of assault, following a violent incident involving two women at a Highlands Ranch residence in November 2024.
The situation unfolded when Scales, who was visiting the home of a woman he was dating, entered the bathroom while she was taking a bath. Accusing her of infidelity, he left the room but returned moments later to confront her. He allegedly attempted to drag the woman from the tub, leading to a chaotic and violent exchange.
When the woman’s friend attempted to intervene, Scales reportedly threw her to the ground, causing her head to strike the floor. He then proceeded to grab both women by the throat, allegedly attempting to strangle them. One of the women managed to call 911 during the altercation, prompting a swift response from law enforcement.
Upon arrival, a deputy from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office observed significant bruising on the friend’s neck, consistent with strangulation. Scales, when questioned, claimed he was unaware of the events, suggesting he was asleep during the incident.
Scales has a lengthy criminal history that includes prior convictions for various offenses such as assault and drug-related crimes. While awaiting trial, he attempted to evade prosecution by fleeing to Texas but was eventually apprehended and returned to Colorado.
On January 15, the jury found Scales guilty of two counts of felony strangulation and two counts of assault characterized by reckless conduct. Deputy District Attorney Lindsay Tucker expressed her hope that the verdict sends a strong message against violence, particularly towards women, stating, “The verdict proves that violence against women will not be tolerated in our community.”
Scales is set to be sentenced on March 27. As the case concludes, it highlights ongoing concerns surrounding domestic violence and the importance of holding offenders accountable. Community members and advocates alike will be watching closely as the legal process unfolds.