Former Denver music promoter Jay Bianchi has been sentenced to over a decade in prison after being convicted of multiple counts of sexual assault and unlawful sexual contact. The verdict was delivered by a Denver jury in November 2025, following a trial that included extensive witness testimony and overwhelming evidence.
The jury found Bianchi guilty on five of the eleven counts he faced, including three counts of sexual assault and two counts of unlawful sexual contact. These offenses occurred between 2020 and 2024 at his Grateful Dead-themed establishments, specifically Sancho’s Broken Arrow and So Many Roads Brewery. The bars were also previously linked to police investigations regarding drug-related activities, underage alcohol sales, and violations of COVID-19 regulations.
In a statement, Denver District Attorney John Walsh characterized Bianchi as a “serial sexual predator,” highlighting the gravity of his actions against women who were “physically incapable of defending themselves.” Walsh expressed hope that the sentencing would provide some measure of comfort to the victims. “As a result of today’s sentence, Bianchi is paying the price for his terrible actions,” he added.
Prosecution and Defense Dynamics
The prosecution’s case was spearheaded by Chief Deputy District Attorney Bree Beasley and Chief Deputy District Attorney Chris Curtis. They emphasized the credibility of the victims against the defense’s attempts to undermine their testimony, which portrayed them as unreliable or vindictive. The trial lasted eight days, during which the jury carefully examined the evidence presented by detectives from cold case and sex crimes units, along with expert witnesses.
Walsh praised not only the prosecution team but also the victim advocates and administrative staff who played crucial roles in supporting the case. The strong collaborative effort among these groups ultimately persuaded the jury of Bianchi’s guilt.
This case marks a significant chapter in the ongoing conversation about sexual violence and accountability, particularly within the nightlife and entertainment industries. The resolution of Bianchi’s trial may also serve as a catalyst for further discussions on ensuring safety and justice for victims in similar situations.
As the community reflects on this case, the impact of Bianchi’s actions continues to resonate. The Denver District Attorney’s Office remains committed to pursuing justice for victims of sexual crimes and hopes that this conviction sends a clear message regarding the seriousness of these offenses.
