JEFFERSON COUNTY, Colo. — A man was sentenced Friday to more than 50 years in prison after pleading guilty to killing his girlfriend last March.
Cole Lewis pleaded guilty earlier this year to second-degree murder and second-degree assault in the death of Laila Combes, 19. A Jefferson County judge sentenced Lewis to 48 years on the murder charge and nine years on the assault charge. The sentences will be served consecutively, the 1st Judicial District Attorney's Office said.
Combes was found dead by Lakewood Police in Lewis' car on March 31, 2023, in the parking lot outside of a restaurant at Colorado Mills, according to a news release from the DA's office. Lewis and Combes worked together at a restaurant near the mall, according to the DA's office.
Lewis told police that the day before, he and Combes had a disagreement. He told investigators that he was upset and started drinking tequila while at work, the DA's office said.
About 11 p.m., Lewis drove to Combes' apartment. Lewis said he broke the tequila bottle in the parking lot and put the top of the bottle in his car, the DA's office said. Lewis told investigators he experienced "blinding rage" and that he blacked out.
He told police that he remembered he was driving and Combes grabbed the steering wheel, causing them to crash into a tree. The car was damaged, but Lewis said was able to drive it to the parking lot of the restaurant where they worked.
Lewis told detectives he remembered strangling Combes and attacking her with the broken tequila bottle, the DA's office said. Combes' autopsy showed stab wounds to her face, neck and chest.
The District Attorney's Office listed resources for people in crisis:
Safe2Tell Colorado:
Students or other community members can anonymously report anything that concerns or threatens you, your friends, your family or your community. Report online or by phone: 877-542-7233.
Colorado Crisis Services:
Call 1-844-493-TALK (8255) or Text “TALK” to 38255. CCS is a 24/7/365 support line for anyone affected by a mental health, substance use or emotional crisis. All calls are connected to a mental health professional, who will provide immediate support and connections to further resources.
If you are being abused or know someone who is, please visit Violence Free Colorado to find the domestic violence program nearest you. Anyone in crisis or in need of immediate help, dial 911 or call the National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-SAFE (7233) or TTY (800) 787−3224.
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