US Marshals Shoot and Wound Colorado Neurosurgeon Accused of Sexual Assault
VERO BEACH, Florida — A former Colorado neurosurgeon, accused of drugging and sexually assaulting a woman, was shot and wounded following a shootout with law enforcement near Vero Beach, Florida earlier this week. The incident involved members of the United States Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force.
The Investigation and Initial Charges
According to Grand Junction Police, officers responded to a reported sexual assault on January 28th. Thomas Steffens, 72, was identified as a suspect, and a warrant was issued for his arrest. The victim reported being drugged at a bar while watching a Broncos game and subsequently sexually assaulted. She had no memory of the events after finishing her drink, waking up in an unfamiliar bed with Steffens present.
Investigators reviewed bar footage showing the victim leaving with Steffens, observing that she appeared unsteady and lacked full control of her body. Further investigation linked a phone number to Steffens, obtained by him after the victim was allegedly coerced into calling it.
Manhunt and Shootout with US Marshals
On Monday, the United States Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force received information that Steffens was traveling by bus to the Treasure Coast of Florida. Intelligence indicated Steffens had expressed intentions to resist arrest, stating he would not be taken alive.
Task force members located a vehicle Steffens was in and attempted a traffic stop. Steffens, in the passenger seat, refused to comply with commands to exit the vehicle and instead opened fire on the five members of the task force. Task force members returned fire, striking Steffens multiple times.
Indian River County Sheriff Eric Flowers described Steffens’ continued defiance even after being shot, stating, “When we finally did take him into custody, he was still defiant. He was still raising his middle finger at our deputies. He was still actively working against us, even though he had been shot four times.”
During the exchange, a U.S. Marshal sustained a gunshot wound to the leg and was treated and released from the hospital.
Pending Charges and Extradition
Steffens faces multiple charges in Colorado, including sexual assault, third-degree assault, and second-degree assault – strangulation. District Attorney Dan Rubinstein stated that Steffens will be extradited back to Colorado to face justice, but this will occur after he addresses the charges related to the shooting in Florida.
The affidavit also reveals two prior reports in 2024 alleging Steffens drugged and sexually assaulted individuals, reportedly by adding medications to their drinks. These investigations were hampered by uncooperative victims.
Medical License and Restrictions
State records indicate Steffens’ medical license in Colorado is currently “restricted.” He agreed to cease practicing medicine in September, following a prior restriction in March 2023 that prohibited him from prescribing controlled substances. Concerns were raised regarding Steffens’ potential physical or mental condition impacting his ability to practice medicine safely.
Steffens now also faces attempted murder charges related to the shooting with the US Marshals. The shooting remains under investigation by the Indian River County and Martin County Sheriff’s Offices.
You can find more information about the US Marshals Service at https://www.usmarshals.gov/
