Aurora Officer Cleared in 2024 Fatal Shooting of Man with Airsoft Gun

The Adams County District Attorney's Office has decided not to file criminal charges against Aurora Police Officer Kevin Rodier for the fatal shooting of Kory Dillard, who pointed what appeared to be a rifle at officers during a violent incident in October 2024. According to DA Brian Mason, the officer acted within Colorado law, as he reasonably believed deadly force was necessary when Dillard aimed an object that looked like a lethal firearm at him. The investigation revealed that Dillard was involved in a fight, threatened to kill a woman, and was holding a battery-powered airsoft gun that lacked the required orange tip, making it look like a real rifle. Dillard's girlfriend highlighted his struggles with PTSD and mental illness, contending the shooting was preventable and suggesting police should have involved mental health professionals, but officials stated the violent nature of the incident did not meet the criteria for such intervention. The DA described Dillard's death as a tragedy but emphasized that Rodier's response was justified given the circumstances, including Dillard's intoxication. This case is distinct from a separate investigation in Kane County where no charges were filed against officers involved in the in-custody death of Jorge Valerio Martinez, who died from medical conditions unrelated to police actions.