Sheen formally charged in Aspen; judge allows contact with wife

By Dennis Webb
Monday, February 8, 2010

Freed of a no-contact order, Charlie Sheen warmly hugged his wife following brief proceedings in an Aspen courtroom this afternoon.

Prosecutors today also brought formal charges against the actor, including a felony menacing count, in connection with his Christmas Day domestic violence arrest in Aspen.

If convicted, Sheen would face a presumptive prison sentence of one to three years, along with two years of mandatory parole.

Ninth Judicial District Judge James Boyd lifted the no-contact order at the request of both Sheen and his wife. Prosecutor Arnie Mordkin did not oppose the move, which was conditioned on having a safety plan in place for Brooke.

Other aspects of a restraining order against Sheen, such as prohibitions against harassing his wife or possessing or consuming alcohol, remain in effect, and Boyd warned Sheen that it’s important for him to follow the terms of the revised order or he could face further charges.

“Yes sir,” Sheen told the judge, vigorously nodding his head as he spoke.

Sheen is due back in court March 15 for further proceedings. His wife had been ordered to appear at today’s hearing because Boyd was considering lifting the no-contact order, but the judge said she didn’t need to be present next month.

Sheen is accused of having threatened Brooke with a knife while they were in Aspen over the holidays.

He also has been charged with misdemeanor counts of third-degree assault and criminal mischief. Through his attorney, Sheen today waived his right to be advised of the charges against him.