I think there are a combination of issues here ...

1. The hotel didn't check the OP in. Since they didn't check the OP in, they didn't get paid by Marriott for the points.
2. Unlike most hotels, the StR Aspen isn't going to get any last minute walk-in and is likely fully booked. So, since they didn't check the OP in, the room went empty and they didn't get paid.
3. Normally, when I have an early morning arrival, Marriott properties around the world almost always will simply check me in at 7 AM without a charge. Over the years, there have been a couple of properties that ask me to book the night before to guarantee a room for an early arrival. I then remind them to check me in. I'm not blaming OP but in terms of lessons learned for others, if this is an issue, one may want to ask the property to check in over the phone. That way, the property gets paid and there are no issues.

That being said, lots of people were impacted by weather this week. If you're a ski resort property, its a cost of doing business. Additionally, as a higher end property, you would think they care about reputation but, my worst cancellation experience, is with a StR before the merger and I agree with the concept that they can be arrogant. I believe their approach is that you must have the money to stay there so just pay up.

I hope OP continues to escalate this. Of course, they key to consumer AG complaints or credit card challenges will be the email the OP received up front describing penalties. I'm not saying that's fair or guest oriented but it does set the legal rights for everyone, even if a guest oriented GM and property shouldn't charge this, just as legacy Marriott properties have never charged me for flight related cancellations that would otherwise trigger a room payment.