A prosecutor in Colorado has granted probation to a teenage immigrant who, while driving without a license in an uninsured vehicle, fatally struck a young woman. This incident occurred in Aurora when 15-year-old was speeding at 90 mph in a 45 mph zone, reportedly losing control and crashing into Kaitlyn Weaver’s vehicle. Kaitlyn, only 24, was killed in July 2024.
Initially, prosecutors indicated they would seek a two-year sentence to a youth correction facility without offering a plea deal. However, after Amy Padden became the district attorney, the defendant was given a two-year probation option in exchange for a guilty plea.
The victim’s father, John Weaver, expressed frustration, questioning why the case was handled differently. He noted that had the crime involved a firearm, the prosecution would have likely been much tougher. He stated, “There is no deterrence.”
Ryan Brackley, an aide to the Arapahoe County DA, defended the plea deal by highlighting the importance of addressing the tragedy involved. Yet, the victim’s family lamented that the defendant never expressed remorse, and they are not receiving nearly $1 million for Kaitlyn’s medical expenses.
John Weaver reflected on the tragic convergence of immigration issues and the justice system, lamenting the loss of his daughter. Before her death, Kaitlyn worked as a volunteer for a suicide hotline and at a drug rehabilitation center.
Brackley noted that various factors were considered in reaching the sentence, including the impact on the victim and community, and the defendant’s background and age. He mentioned that the teenager is expected to complete 100 hours of community service, stay in school, and refrain from illegal activities.
The Arapahoe County Assistant District Attorney’s Office did not comment when approached for additional input. In broader context, the Justice Department under the Trump administration pursued legal action regarding Denver’s so-called “sanctuary policies,” attributing issues to Venezuelan gangs controlling certain areas. In January, President Trump enacted the Lakeken Riley Act, which mandates that illegal immigrants accused of serious crimes must be detained, named after a nursing student murdered in 2024.
