COLORADO SPRINGS, Colorado — A Fort Carson soldier who entered a guilty plea in a sexual assault case was sentenced Monday afternoon to serve 12 years to life in prison, according to court proceedings.
Caden Meade was originally arrested and charged in August 2025 with kidnapping, felony menacing, and sexual assault. Authorities stated that Meade abducted a woman at knifepoint at Quail Lake, drove her two miles away from the location, and sexually assaulted her before releasing her. The victim subsequently sought assistance at a nearby business to contact law enforcement.
Legal records indicate that Meade entered a guilty plea to the sexual assault charge in March 2025.
During the Monday sentencing hearing, the presiding judge referenced submitted documents indicating that Meade had engaged in actions intended to prompt his dismissal from the United States Army. The judge remarked that the choices made by Meade represented the worst nightmare of anyone present in the courtroom.
The victim appeared in court to request that the judge impose a life sentence without the possibility of parole. She detailed the profound impact the assault has had on her life and expressed ongoing concerns that Meade would locate and attack her again if he were ever released from custody.
Information provided by prosecutors revealed that two other women currently hold active restraining orders against Meade.
The final sentence requires Meade to serve 12 years to life in prison, and he will face mandatory parole supervision if he is ever released.
Additionally, Meade is required to register as a sex offender. State officials scheduled a hearing for July to determine whether Meade will also be designated as a sexually violent predator.
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