OFFICE OF THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY
TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT
Michael T. Dougherty, District Attorney

August 6, 2018
Ms. Melanie Klein
Executive Director
Boulder Shambhala Center
1345 Spruce Street
Boulder, CO 80302
Dear Ms. Klein,
This letter is in response to the recent articles published in the Boulder Daily Camera regarding
the emerging sexual assault allegations against Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche and in regards to the Boulder
Shambhala Center.
At the District Attorney's Office, we have a nationally-recognized Sexual Assault Unit comprised
of attorneys dedicated to the prosecution of sexual offenses. It is the well-established practice of our
Office to not only prosecute cases, but to engage in proactive community outreach regarding the options
available in reporting cases of sexual misconduct, including an explanation of the law enforcement
response.
We recognize that the Boulder Shambhala Center is taking direct action to address these
allegations within your community of faith. We are also aware that you are currently in the process of
creating a series of practice and conversation sessions for your members. In this regard, we would
welcome the opportunity to be a part of these sessions. At such a meeting, we would be happy to share
with the Center community the criminal justice process, the procedures for reporting allegations of sexual
misconduct, and also provide resource information regarding support services and victim advocacy
options available in Boulder. It is a priority to us that the protection of our laws is made available to all
members of our community.
We are happy to discuss this further at your convenience. If our involvement in this process is of
interest to you and the interim Board of Directors, please feel free to contact me, at (303) 441-3798.
Sincerely,

Michael T. Dougherty
District Attorney

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