Charges Dropped Against Registered Sex Offender After Kidnapping Attempt at Elementary School

Prosecutors in Colorado plan to dismiss charges against Solomon Galligan, a registered sex offender, due to his inability to stand trial. Galligan, aged 33, was accused of attempting to kidnap an 11-year-old student during recess at Black Forest Hills Elementary School in April 2024.

Following his arrest, Galligan was deemed mentally incompetent to proceed in court. As a result, criminal charges for attempted kidnapping will be dropped. The incident was recorded on video, showing Galligan chasing and grabbing at the student while other children fled.

The Aurora Police Department, which investigated the case, confirmed Galligan’s registration as a sex offender with the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office. Community members expressed alarm over the event, with one parent describing the scene as “super scary” and emphasizing the severity of an attempted kidnapping.

In response to the incident, parents submitted a detailed 10-page letter urging an independent review of the school’s handling of the situation. An internal investigation led to administrative changes, including the replacement of the former principal, Amanda Replogle, as part of efforts to improve security and prevent future incidents.

School officials acknowledged that initially the campus was not placed on secure status following the event—a mistake they directly admitted. Changes implemented since then include enhanced security measures, increased security personnel, and a focus on student mental health, such as offering indoor recess options for safety.

The district expressed regrets over the oversight and stated its commitment to a safer environment. No additional comments were provided by the district or the district attorney’s office at this time.