Charges Dropped in Aurora School Kidnapping Case

Prosecutors in Colorado's 18th Judicial District plan to drop charges against Solomon Galligan, a registered sex offender accused of attempting to kidnap an 11-year-old boy from Black Forest Hills Elementary School in Aurora in April 2024, after he was found mentally incompetent to stand trial. The alleged kidnapping attempt, recorded on video, caused widespread concern among parents and prompted demands for an independent review of the school's response. As a result, the school principal was replaced and enhanced security protocols were put in place. By law, the district attorney's office must dismiss charges if a defendant is found unfit to proceed, though Galligan could potentially be tried in the future if competency is restored. Galligan, who is transgender and has a history of sex offenses, remains untried for this incident. The case has reignited debate about school safety and legal requirements in cases involving mental incompetence.