Coloradans rally after school abduction case tossed under new ‘incompetence’ law—demanding legislative change

By Natalie Chuck , Joe Vaccarelli | Denver7

Legislation passed last year states that a judge must dismiss charges if a suspect is found incompetent to stand trial and not restorable

ARAPAHOE COUNTY, Colo. — A state lawmaker, elected officials and community members called for legislative action on Wednesday, stating that a state law requiring courts to drop charges against individuals found to be incompetent needs to be revised.

This comes after news that a suspect accused of attempting to kidnap children at an Aurora elementary school last year will have the case dropped sparked outrage and received national attention.

“When we’re looking at this law, it needs to be reconsidered,” said Susan Payne, founder and former executive director of Safe2Tell.

Solomon Galligan, 34, was arrested after surveillance video captured the suspect lunging at a child playing outside on April 19, 2024 at Black Forest Hills Elementary School. Galligan was charged with kidnapping and child abuse.

A motion to dismiss Galligan’s case was filed by defense attorneys on Monday, stating that Galligan has had 23 competency hearings within the past 18 years.

The prosecution has until July 28 to respond, after which a judge will determine the next steps.

Charles Morales was at the rally on Wednesday and said he saw Galligan acting erratically shortly before the attempted kidnapping.

“I kick myself to this day. I shouldn’t have been so passive. But nevertheless, that’s where we are. That’s why I’m here today. I’m going to join this group. I’m going to spread the news in our neighborhood,” Morales said. “And do what I can to help get the legislature to change direction.”

READ THE FULL STORY AT DENVER7