Illegal immigrant teen who killed Colorado woman spared jail time with plea deal

The tragic death of Kaitlyn Weaver in July 2024 has sparked outrage and controversy after it was revealed that the teenage illegal immigrant responsible for her death was given a lenient plea deal that allowed him to walk free without serving any jail time. The 24-year-old Colorado woman was killed in a high-speed crash in a residential neighborhood in the Denver suburb of Aurora.

The 15-year-old Colombian teen, whose identity is protected under state laws that shield underage criminal suspects, was sentenced to two years probation and 100 hours of community service for the fatal crash that claimed Weaver’s life. The teen was racing his Jeep at speeds of 90 mph when he T-boned Weaver’s vehicle at an intersection, resulting in her instantaneous death.

John Weaver, Kaitlyn’s father, expressed his frustration and disappointment with the plea deal offered by Arapahoe County District Attorney Amy Padden. Initially told that the case was a “no plea offer” case, the Weavers were shocked when Padden’s office proposed a probation plea deal in January. The family’s attorney, Matthew Durkin, described the deal as “abhorrent,” emphasizing the loss of a vibrant young woman in the prime of her life.

The teen, who was in the United States illegally and unlicensed, had taken the uninsured Jeep without his mother’s permission. Despite plans to return him to Colombia, the teen has since applied for asylum. Assistant District Attorney Ryan Brackley condemned the teen’s reckless behavior, acknowledging the devastating consequences of his actions.

In a statement on Facebook, Padden addressed Weaver’s death while highlighting the dangers of speeding. She emphasized the importance of responsible driving and the profound impact that reckless behavior can have on communities. The plea deal and sentencing have sparked a debate about the intersection of immigration and criminal justice systems and the need for accountability in cases of preventable tragedies.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of dangerous driving and the lasting impact it can have on families and communities. As the Weaver family continues to mourn the loss of their daughter, they hope that justice will be served and that measures will be taken to prevent similar tragedies in the future.