Aurora DA’s Office to Drop Charges Against 1 S-x Offender in Shocking Aurora

Aurora

On April 19, 2024, Solomon Galligan, a 33‑year‑old registered sex offender (registry tied to the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office), allegedly entered the grounds of Black Forest Hills Elementary School in Aurora during recess. Surveillance video shows him approaching a group of children, chasing and grabbing at an 11‑year‑old boy before collapsing and fleeing the scene.

Galligan was arrested nearby. He was charged with one count of attempted kidnapping. The school responded swiftly: parents filed a 10‑page letter demanding an emergency review, and the principal, Amanda Replogle, was ultimately replaced due to missteps in order execution. The Cherry Creek School District then enhanced security protocols and mental health support, even offering indoor recess as an alternative.

Why are charges being dropped?

In June 2025, Galligan was evaluated and deemed mentally incompetent to stand trial, meaning he cannot understand proceedings or assist in his defense. Under Colorado law, this triggers a mandatory charge dismissal if competency cannot be restored within a reasonable period. The DA’s office has confirmed plans to drop the charges, though Galligan will not be released to the streets—he is to be civilly committed for mental health treatment.

A spokesperson, Eric Ross of the 18th Judicial DA’s Office, emphasized this decision is legally required, not discretionary.

Public outrage and political backlash

The decision has touched off fierce public reaction. Many are demanding a greater focus on public safety, rejecting the idea that legal technicalities should overshadow community risk.

Parents and observers criticize the notion that mental incompetency leads to dismissal without ensured long-term containment:

“If he’s a registered sex offender … he should be in an institution, not walking the streets free,” one social media user wrote.

Another asked:

“So if he’s incompetent … can he go walking the streets free as a butterfly?? So he can do it again??”

The political landscape is also heating up. Aurora City Councilwoman Danielle Jurinsky, a Republican, has initiated a campaign to recall DA Amy Padden, asserting her “progressive approach” undermines accountability. Critics argue Padden and her office are failing to truly protect victims.

Legal and mental health context

Colorado law mandates automatic dismissal of charges when a defendant is found incompetent and not restorable. However, that dismissal does not equate to freedom—civil commitment serves to detain individuals for mental health treatment, even if criminal prosecution cannot proceed.

Galligan has repeatedly been found incompetent in four previous criminal cases. It is unclear how long his civil commitment will last; by state law, such confinement can extend up to 12 months at a time, though renewals may be possible.

Supporters of civil commitment contend that this channel balances due process with public safety, addressing the root cause—mental illness—rather than bypassing responsibility. The DA’s office maintains Galligan will not be released without proper psychiatric safeguards.

Voices from the community

The incident has triggered an emotional public conversation. On Reddit’s r/ProtectAndServe, one user reflected:

“DA’s office ‘planning’ to drop charges … If it’s a permanent condition how is he on the sex offender list?”

Meanwhile, r/Denver users expressed similar concerns about the disconnect between justice and community security.

These comments spotlight tension: people recognize legal limitations but feel overwhelmingly uneasy about a person with such a history remaining in the community—even under mental health care.

Broader implications

This case sits at the intersection of critical issues:

Mental health and criminal justice: Where is the line between compassion and protection?
Sex offender registry vs. mental incompetency: Can someone be deemed a danger yet unable to stand trial?
Political polarization: Progressive policies are being painted as dangerous leniency.
School safety: The incident prompted sweeping changes in how schools handle intruders and recess protocols.

Looking ahead: what’s next?

Formal dismissal motion: The DA’s office must file by the end of July 2025.
Civil commitment hearings: These will determine whether Galligan remains confined until deemed safe.
Committee reviews: Vigilance is expected on whether Colorado refines laws around competency and involuntary commitment.
Political fallout: Recall efforts against DA Padden could reshape local justice policies.